As the festive lull between Christmas Day and New Year's Eve approaches, many across the West Midlands are looking for ways to escape the house and make the most of the holiday break. Known as 'Twixmas', this period from December 26th to 30th is packed with local events and seasonal activities to entertain all ages.
Stage Spectacles & Family Pantomimes
The region's theatres are in full swing with a dazzling array of shows. At the Birmingham Hippodrome, the pantomime Robin Hood stars Christopher Biggins, Gok Wan, and Matt Slack. This major production runs from December 20, 2025, until February 1, 2026.
For a festive mystery, head to the Birmingham REP for Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas, a whodunnit that continues until January 18, 2026. In Stratford-upon-Avon, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre presents a magical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The BFG on selected dates through December and into January.
Meanwhile, Malvern Theatres offers the classic tale Jack and the Beanstalk, featuring Emmerdale's Tom Lister, with performances until January 4, 2026.
Outdoor Ice Rinks & Festive Funfairs
For those seeking fresh air and activity, Ice Skate Birmingham in Centenary Square remains a top choice. The rink, alongside a Big Wheel, is open daily (except Christmas Day) until January 4, 2026, from 10am to 10pm.
The NEC transforms into a Winter Funland, hosting an indoor funfair, ice rink, and circus shows until January 3, 2026. Alton Towers also keeps its festive charm with CBeebies Land celebrations and light displays, operating until January 4, 2026 (10am – 4pm).
Over at the Malvern Three Counties Showground, the Winter Glow event features a spectacular light trail, giant wheel, and another ice rink, open until New Year’s Eve (December 31, 2025).
Enchanting Trails & Seasonal Strolls
Several beautiful trails offer a gentler pace. At the National Trust's Baddesley Clinton, The Snowman™ Sculpture Trail invites visitors to spot 12 giant sculptures. It's open daily (except December 24th and 25th) until January 11, 2026, from 9am to 4pm.
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens glow after dark with the Luminate Winter Trail, a mile-long journey of light and music. This runs nightly until New Year’s Day (January 1, 2026), from 4pm to 10:30pm.
For a bracing walk, try the Hatton Locks "Stairway to Heaven", a two-mile route climbing 21 canal locks. Start at Hatton Country World and finish at the Hatton Arms, though it's wise to check pub hours for Twixmas food service.
History lovers can visit the Tudor Packwood House in Solihull, dressed for Christmas and open for festive tours until January 4, 2026 (closed Dec 24/25). Alternatively, lose yourself in the vast Heart of England Forest in Warwickshire, offering eight distinct walks across 8,000 acres, open daily except Christmas Day.
New for This Season
A novel addition this year is the Kenilworth Revealed App. This allows you to explore the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey using augmented reality on your smartphone. The accompanying walk is approximately two miles and can be enjoyed at any time.
With such a diverse programme of theatre, skating, trails, and technology-enhanced heritage, there's no need for a Twixmas slump in the Birmingham area. Planning ahead is recommended to secure tickets for popular shows and timed slots for attractions.
