By james art 
Birmingham’s popular Frankfurt Christmas Market, which is expected to welcome millions of visitors over the next two months, has opened its doors.
The event on New Street and Victoria Square kicks off at 11:00 GMT on Friday with the lights officially switched on at 5:30 p.m.
Recognizable log cabins line the area with a Ferris wheel and ice rink returning to Centenary Square for the 2024 season.
The market will open daily at 11:00 GMT from Monday to Friday, with the event starting one hour earlier on weekends until 24 December.
The first punters arrived at the venue ahead of its opening on Friday.
Sheila, from Shrewsbury, said the market helped her get into the Christmas spirit.
“I think it’s wonderful because even if you don’t have pennies in your pocket to splash, the sights and sounds are good for the family,” she told BBC Radio WM.
“Especially when it gets dark and the lights go out and you can smell the cooking and the music and stuff.
“I think it’s a wonderful community gathering.”
Birmingham City Council deputy leader Sharon Thompson said: “I think the Christmas market brings a lot of joy to a lot of people.
“We’re seeing people not only from across the city coming into the centre, but from across the UK and Europe.
“So it’s a great feel-good factor, but it’s also a big revenue earner for the local economy.”
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