Brocarde brings ghostly encounters to Birmingham’s Cathedral Square Christmas Market
A dark past lingers at Birmingham’s Cathedral Square Christmas Market.
Birmingham’s Cathedral Square Christmas Market may sparkle with fairy lights and festive cheer, but according to rock singer and paranormal investigator Brocarde, its foundations are steeped in something far more sinister.
The bustling attraction sits directly above St Philip’s churchyard, where more than 60,000 people have been laid to rest since the early 1700s. Market organisers promote the event as an “alternative” holiday destination, yet Brocarde argues its true gothic appeal comes not from quirky stalls but from the spirits who mingle with the crowds.
Her fascination with the afterlife began during the recording of her debut album, when she claims a chilling encounter with her ghostly ex-husband, Edwardo, unlocked her ability to communicate with the dead. The story made international headlines, and ever since, Brocarde has travelled the globe chronicling her most unnerving supernatural experiences.
On her latest visit, she pointed out gravestones lying just steps away from the Helter Skelter, meaning partygoers are “literally dancing on graves” as they sip mulled wine and enjoy the rides.
Brocarde said: “There are multiple resident ghosts in Cathedral Square. These aren’t the ghosts of Christmas past — they’re here with us now.
“They watch over the market, probably intrigued by how we celebrate Christmas in 2025.”
Among the apparitions she described was a petite woman who lingers near the Helter Skelter, mischievously brushing past visitors and spilling drinks.
Brocarde quipped: “She’s brilliant at boosting bar sales."
Rejecting the idea that spirits only seek eternal rest, Brocarde believes the dead crave celebration too.
She claimed: “Christmas is about joy and togetherness — the ghosts want to join in just as much as we do.”
And in her trademark dark humour, she suggested the market embrace its haunted heritage: “They should install a ghost train to honour the departed. Some might call it tasteless, but is it really worse than cremated hot dogs? I think the spirits would be thrilled — they could even run it with skeleton staff after hours.”
