Get the most out of your December on campus!
Aston Webb Christmas Trees
There’s just two weeks to go before the University closes for the festive break, but there’s plenty going on around campus with seasonal sights not to be missed.
We’ve rounded up the top picks open for all University staff to join in. You can also check out the December What's On Guide for more free events.
Christmas lights on campus
Aston Webb – The halls have been decked and the colossal Christmas trees in the main reception are not to be missed! While you’re there, why not pop into Bramall café for a candy cane hot chocolate?
Winterbourne – Pop in for free with your University ID card and immerse yourself in Christmas cheer at the historic Edwardian house, which has been lit up for the festive season. You can also tuck into their winter warmers in the tearoom and browse the Christmas shop for a range of gifts.
University Library – Check out the library’s festive offering with plenty of tinsel in tow, they really have sleighed it this year!
Events
It’s time to dig your festive fun wear out of the wardrobe for Christmas Jumper Day 2023, in support of Save the Children. You can check with your manager in advance to find out if your department is taking part and help to raise funds for kids in the UK and around the world.
Come and join us at the annual University Carol Service concert in the Great Hall. Led by the University's Multi-Faith Chaplaincy, this event is sure to get you in the festive spirit with plenty of traditional Christmas songs, hymns, and music. No need to book, just show up!
The University is opening up its grounds to Acorns Charity, they will be on campus from 8am to 12noon placing a large-scale paper chain on the Green Heart, representing the number of families the charity has supported in 2023 (Chancellor’s Court has been reserved as ‘Plan B’ should the ground be too wet!). Old Joe will be lighting up orange to mark the occasion and Acorns volunteers will be collecting donations, any funds raised from the University Carol Concert will go to Acorns too.
The Birmingham Professional Festive Forum 2023 is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy some fun with colleagues, have some festive nibbles and refreshments and celebrate our achievements as 2023 comes to an end. Pop along to the Great Hall from 10.30am to 12noon.
Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking lecture by Dr Clenton Farquharson CBE at The Happiness Lecture in the Great Hall from 6pm to 7.15pm. Clenton actively promotes an understanding of equality, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, as well as the implementation of practices that can empower and motivate individuals and organisations.