Smaller German market blamed on Brexit and city centre works

BIRMINGHAM’S Frankfurt German Market is to return this year.

After being cancelled last year due to Covid, work began this week to build the market for the 21st year.

Birmingham City Council has confirmed the preparations this week for the seven-week event.

The bars, food stands, market stalls and huge Christmas tree will be ready for the opening on November 4 and run until December 23.

Over five million people visit the attraction every year to enjoy the German beer and bratwursts.

But organisers have said the 2021 event will be smaller than usual with 56 stalls, blaming Brexit troubles and city centre works.

Birmingham City Council also warned of the potential cancellation if Covid restrictions change.

Councillor Ian Ward, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “The Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of Birmingham’s great festive events, attracting millions of people to the city centre – so it’s great to see it return for its 21st year after it was cancelled due to the pandemic last year. I’d like to thank everyone involved in planning and staging the market who works so hard, all year round, to make this such a well-run and special festive event.”

Kurt Stroscher, Frankfurt City Council’s director of festivals and events, said: “We are so happy to come back to Birmingham this year and look forward to seeing people enjoying the market’s festive cheer – we’ve missed being part of the city’s Christmas celebrations.

“Last year’s decision to cancel the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market was made with a very heavy heart. In planning this year’s return we’ve introduced Covid safety measures to ensure we protect the public, traders and visitors.”