As the Christmas season approaches, the air turns festive, gift lists grow longer, and the search for the perfect seasonal experience begins. At the heart of the UK’s festive retail calendar is the Festive Gift Fair, one of the most anticipated consumer events dedicated to Christmas shopping. Held at the NEC in Birmingham, this four-day fair brings together hundreds of exhibitors offering a dazzling mix of Christmas gifts, home decorations, seasonal foods, and holiday entertainment.
For anyone looking to enjoy a festive atmosphere while discovering unique and affordable gift ideas, the Festive Gift Fair offers the perfect blend of shopping, inspiration, and seasonal spirit.
Venue and Dates
The Festive Gift Fair takes place at Hall 5 of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham. The NEC is one of the UK’s most accessible venues, located close to Birmingham International Airport and Railway Station, and well-connected by major roads and motorways.
The next edition of the Festive Gift Fair is scheduled to take place from Thursday to Sunday, 13 to 16 November 2025. The event runs daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, giving visitors ample time to explore every corner of the fair.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the event are affordably priced to suit all budgets. Discounted rates are often available for advance online bookings, while on-the-day tickets can be purchased at a slightly higher rate. Children under a certain age may enter for free, but it’s advisable to check ticket rules in advance.
There are also group discounts, making it a great option for family or friends looking to enjoy a day out together.
Accommodation Nearby
Given its central location, visitors to the Festive Gift Fair have numerous accommodation options near the NEC. These range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays. Popular options include hotels on the NEC campus itself, such as large hotel chains and mid-range lodgings that offer comfort, convenience, and easy access to the venue.
Visitors looking for a more boutique experience can explore accommodations in nearby Solihull or Birmingham city centre, both just a short drive or train ride away. Booking early is highly recommended, as hotel availability fills up quickly during the festive season.
What to Expect at the Show
The Festive Gift Fair is not just a shopping event. It is a full-scale Christmas experience filled with color, music, and a lively festive atmosphere. With more than 300 stalls, the event caters to all tastes and budgets.
You’ll find:
- Unique and personalised gifts
- Handmade crafts and artisan items
- Christmas cards, wrapping, and seasonal packaging
- Home décor and festive lighting
- Stocking fillers and novelty items
- Toys, games, and gifts for all ages
- Winter clothing and fashion accessories
- Beauty products, fragrances, and self-care gifts
The fair also includes a large food and drink section, where visitors can sample and purchase artisan chocolates, baked goods, preserves, cheeses, festive beverages, and more.
Entertainment and Attractions
Beyond the stalls, the fair offers plenty of festive entertainment. Roaming performers, live music, and character appearances all contribute to the joyful holiday vibe. The fair is designed to appeal to all ages, making it a fun outing for families, couples, and friends.
Whether it’s meeting a Santa character, enjoying live Christmas tunes, or watching a performance as you shop, the entertainment helps transform a simple shopping trip into a full festive day out.
Benefits of Attending
There are many reasons why tens of thousands of people attend the Festive Gift Fair every year:
- A wide range of products all in one place, saving time and effort
- The opportunity to find unusual, exclusive, or handmade items not found on the high street
- Direct interaction with small businesses, independent makers, and passionate creators
- A lively and joyful atmosphere that marks the beginning of the holiday season
- Special show offers and discounts that can help stretch your gift budget further
- The perfect opportunity to tick off every name on your Christmas list in one visit
It is also an ideal way to support small and medium-sized UK businesses at a time when every sale counts.
Who Should Attend
The Festive Gift Fair is ideal for anyone who loves Christmas and wants to make the most of the holiday season. From early planners who like to get their shopping done ahead of time, to last-minute gifters who need inspiration, this fair offers something for everyone.
It’s particularly suited for:
- Families planning a festive day out
- Christmas decorators and interior enthusiasts
- Small business owners looking for seasonal stock
- Food lovers and home entertainers
- Friends or couples looking for a cheerful, creative shopping experience
Tips for Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to the Festive Gift Fair, consider the following tips:
- Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and get the best picks from stalls
- Bring a shopping trolley or large reusable bags, as many visitors find themselves purchasing more than expected
- Dress comfortably and wear walking shoes, as there’s a lot of ground to cover
- Plan your budget in advance and bring both cash and cards, as some vendors may not take card payments
- Check the fair’s website before attending for maps, entertainment schedules, and parking offers
Final Thoughts
The Festive Gift Fair is a delightful experience that blends shopping with celebration. It’s not just about buying presents, but about stepping into the spirit of the holidays. From the joyful music to the scent of seasonal treats and the sparkle of decorations, everything about the fair captures the essence of Christmas.
If you want to find meaningful gifts, enjoy a festive outing, and kick off the holiday season with warmth and excitement, the Festive Gift Fair is the place to be this November.
Visit and book your tickets here: https://www.festivegiftfair.co.uk