Visitors to the Birmingham Christmas Funfair can now use a new cashless payment system ahead of the event's opening later this month. The pay-as-you-go wristband, launched by organisers, allows attendees to pre-load money and pay for rides and attractions without needing physical cash or cards.
How the Wristband Works
The wristband can be purchased online or at designated kiosks at the funfair site in Centenary Square. Users create an account, add funds via debit or credit card, and receive a waterproof wristband with a chip. At each ride or food stall, visitors simply tap the wristband on a reader to pay. Any unspent balance can be refunded after the event, with a small administration fee.
According to Birmingham City Council, which licenses the funfair, the system is designed to speed up queues and improve hygiene. “We want families to focus on having fun, not fumbling for change,” said a council spokesperson. “The cashless wristband is safer, faster, and more convenient for everyone.”
Over 50 Attractions and Rides
The Birmingham Christmas Funfair, running from 15 November 2024 to 5 January 2025, will feature more than 50 rides and attractions, including a giant wheel, roller coasters, and traditional carousels. Food vendors will also accept the wristband, offering festive treats such as mulled wine, mince pies, and hog roasts.
Organisers expect over 500,000 visitors during the eight-week period, making it one of the largest funfairs in the Midlands. The new payment system is part of broader efforts to modernise the event and reduce waste from paper tickets and cash handling.
Impact on Visitors and Vendors
Regular attendee Sarah Jones, 34, from Kings Heath, said she welcomed the change. “Last year I spent ages in queues for tokens and then lost my change. The wristband sounds much easier, especially with kids.” Vendors have been provided with free contactless readers and training.
The council has also introduced a loyalty scheme: visitors who pre-load £50 or more will receive a 10% bonus credit. Families can purchase up to five wristbands per account, with a £10 deposit per wristband refundable after the event.
Background and Future Plans
The cashless system was trialled at smaller events earlier this year, including the Birmingham Mela and the Frankfurt Christmas Market. Feedback was positive, leading to its rollout at the funfair. Councillor Jayne Francis, cabinet member for digital and culture, said: “Birmingham is a smart city, and we’re committed to using technology to improve public events. The wristband is just the start – we plan to extend cashless payments to other seasonal attractions.”
The funfair will also feature a new app that shows live queue times and ride availability, linked to the wristband account. Visitors can download the app from 1 November.
The introduction of the cashless payment plan comes as many UK events move away from cash. According to a 2023 survey by UK Hospitality, 78% of visitors prefer contactless payments at large events. The Birmingham Christmas Funfair aims to set a benchmark for efficiency and visitor experience.
