University of Birmingham marks 125 years with spectacular lightshow and festive fun on campus

The University of Birmingham is inviting families to join its campus celebrations to mark an incredible 125th anniversary year with a feast of festive fun and spectacular first-of-its-kind lightshow. 

Families visiting the beautiful Edgbaston campus on Wednesday 3 December will witness something extra special - a magnificent display projected onto its Edwardian buildings that tells the stories of the University’s thinkers, dreamers, and innovators.

From Joseph Chamberlain’s original vision for Britain’s first civic university to the people who have shaped our world, animated graphics projected onto the iconic Aston Webb building will illuminate the story of how the University has helped to make the world a better place.

Professor Adam Tickell, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Birmingham, said: “We look forward to welcoming visitors from across the city for what promises to be a stunning experience. Everyone’s invited to be part of this historic moment.

“This magnificent lightshow draws to a close a momentous year in our storied history – 125 years of brilliant people with the vision and talent to make people’s lives better; not just in Birmingham, but around the globe. This is our tribute to them.”

Since Queen Victoria granted its Royal Charter in 1900, the University of Birmingham counts 10 Nobel laureates and two former British Prime Ministers amongst its staff and graduates. It is also currently ranked among the world’s top 100 universities. From pioneering transplant surgery to creating artificial Vitamin C, its people have changed the way the world works.

There will be three opportunities to witness the spectacular lightshow near the Old Joe clocktower in Chancellor’s Court at the following times: 4.15pm, 5.00pm, and 8.00pm.

Visitors to campus can also enjoy a fantastic array of fun activities to kickstart their festive season and get in the yuletide mood with ‘Christmas on Campus: 125 edition’ giving people of all ages a wonderful opportunity to taste University life. The day will feature:

• Artisan Market - local craftspeople and producers offering baked goods, homemade produce, handmade items, vintage and unique gifts, crafts, and street food

• Christmas Craft Fair - talented students, Alumni, and staff offering handmade ceramics, artwork, jewellery and more

• Live music and entertainment – including Christmas street performers

• Funfair carousel, fairground games and facepainting

• Ten-minute ‘Claus for Thought’ talks - fun takes on the festive season from our leading academics

• Largely in your hands: guided tours of the fascinating exhibition that delves into the stories of the people behind the University

• Christmas movies – step into our cinema for three fantastic short films

• Christmas light switch-on in Chancellor’s Court after the 5.00pm lightshow

• University Carol Service – join our Chaplaincy for a festive multi-faith musical celebration presented with University of Birmingham Music

The University of Birmingham is a global institution with proud roots in one of the UK’s most dynamic and diverse cities. As a Russell Group leader and founding member of Universitas 21, it has spent more than a century shaping ideas, driving innovation, and transforming lives.

Today, its research-intensive work generates billions for the UK economy, while its commitment to net zero and the UN Sustainable Development Goals signals a bold, future‑focused ambition for the region and the world. In Birmingham and far beyond, the University continues to change the way the world works.

Discover more information about this exciting day.