Have you become a slave to tradition once the Christmas season starts? Are you stuck in a festive rut? Then make 2015 the year that you break away from your normal routine and try something new.
Here are seven suggestions to help you look at Christmas in a new light:
1. Tired of turkey? Enjoy a taste of South America
Bodega
Without a dollop of cranberry sauce or sprout in sight, have a 'Feliz Navidad' (that's Spanish for 'Happy Christmas') at Bodega. This alternative Christmas dinner includes a number of South American dishes, including Peruvian spiced lamb, vegetable chilli, moqueca or a buffet menu where you will be spoilt for choice. Bodega also has a great range of winter drinks, with plenty of Tequila to get you feeling jolly.
2. Forget the grottos and enjoy A Winter Less Ordinary
A Winter Less Ordinary
A Winter Less Ordinary in Digbeth describes itself as the 'alternative Christmas experience'. Held over the weekend of December 12-13, the event showcases a huge range of independent fashion, art, crafts and food. There'll something for everyone, including markets, a dance floor and live DJ music, giving you the Christmas spirit with a twist.
3. Escape the chaos of the German Market
Seasonal Markets
If you've had your fill of the market in Birmingham's city centre, then don't despair. On Saturday December 5 the Winter Market will return to The Bond in Digbeth.
This is a food and drinks lover's heaven, with a vast range of street food vendors. Regulars to the market include The Bournville Waffle Company, Becky's Bhajis, The Jabberwocky, Habeneros, Buddha Belly and many others. Entry is only £1.50 and you'll find great gifts at one of the many stalls, without the same heaving crowds.
4. Give your Christmas party a nautical twist
Central Boat Parties
Get the work party as far away from the office as possible with one of Birmingham's Central Boat Parties. The company offers hire of their canal boats (don't worry, this includes the driver!) with bar and food facilities. You'll even also be allowed to decorate the boat and play your own music – so get festive!
5. Start your Christmas in fairytale style
Warwick Castle
Enjoy Christmas with a dash of 'Game of Thrones' (with less murder and eye gouging, obviously) by booking a unique short break at Warwick Castle.
The castle offers two packages: Medieval Glamping or a stay in their 14th century tower suite. It's fit for a fairytale and would be the perfect start to any Christmas break. Plus, you can wander into Warwick itself and choose from over 120 restaurants for the perfect Christmas dinner to accompany the weekend away.