First look at Birmingham's Christmas Market as it starts to take shape

It's official - Christmas has landed in Birmingham as work got underway at the weekend

It's been a while, but Birmingham is getting a festive face-lift ahead of this year's German Christmas Market.

With just 12 days to go until it officially opens, work has got underway in Victoria Square over the weekend.

This years anticipation is off the charts, after the market was cancelled for the first time in its history last year due to Covid restrictions.

The installation began with two cranes hoisting equipment in front of the Council House, where The Floozie in the Jacuzzi was removed earlier this month.

Chalets, bars and the landmark Christmas tree will slowly begin to emerge over the coming days.

This year's market will have 56 stalls that spread down New Street while ongoing works are carried out in Victoria Square.

The German Market is celebrating its 21st anniversary this year.

More formally known as Frankfurt Christmas Market Birmingham, is the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria.

Another new feature for visitors this year will be a backdrop of the nearly-finished 103 Colmore Row tower looming over Victoria Square.

Kurt Stroscher, Frankfurt City Council’s director of festivals and events, said: “We are so happy to come back to Birmingham this year and looking forward to seeing people enjoying the market’s festive cheer.

"We’ve missed being part of the city’s Christmas celebrations," he added.