This December, York Minster transforms into a hub of festive celebration, offering a series of stunning events that capture the magic of the Christmas season. From the ethereal Advent Procession to the lively performances of The Nutcracker, each event is designed to bring joy and reflection. Highlights include the much-awaited Christmas Carol Concerts and the atmospheric Sankta Lucia: Festival of Light. With contributions from world-class musicians and performers, York Minster’s festive season promises a captivating experience for all, filled with music, tradition, and the spirit of Christmas.

York Minster's Spectacular Festive Season: A Celebration of Music, Light, and Tradition

Two services consisting of nine special readings, music sung by the Choir of York Minster, and well-loved Christmas carols for everyone to join in with. A traditional Christmas celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Nine Lessons and Carols

York Minster

This ever-popular annual concert will take place in the stunning Nave of York Minster. In addition to traditional choral items old and new, there will be festive music performed by the Handbell Ringers of the Chapter House Choir – a uniquely Christmassy combination in the perfect candlelit setting! The Chapter House Choir will be joined by the Chapter House Youth Choir under the direction of Charlie Gower-Smith.

Carols by Candlelight

An atmospheric, candlelit procession and carol service for all the family based on the traditional Swedish Lucia celebration.

Sankta Lucia: Festival of Light

The world-famous Brighouse & Rastrick Band arrive at York Minster for a fabulous festive concert that you won’t want to miss.

Brighouse & Rastrick Band

York Minster’s popular Christmas Carol Concerts return offering the perfect start to the festive season.

Christmas Carol Concerts

Enjoy a festive treat for all the family with a magical performance of The Nutcracker in York Minster’s spectacular Nave. The perfect introduction to classical music.

The Nutcracker

Following the successful Praetorius tour in 2022, Gabrieli Roar presents A Grand Georgian Christmas. Led by Gabrieli Artistic Director Paul McCreesh, over 4,000 late-primary and secondary students will join Gabrieli’s world-class musicians across eleven performances in regional cathedrals around the UK, from Cumbria to Cornwall.

A Grand Georgian Christmas with Gabrieli Roar

Join York Minster’s worship to mark the start of Advent with an atmospheric and breath-taking candlelit service of music, readings and prayers, in celebration and anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World.

Advent Procession

An annual service of Thanksgiving and Commemoration for Remembrance Sunday which will include music by the Choir of York Minster, hymns, readings, prayers and an Act of Remembrance at 11am in unison with the commemorations across the city, when Great Peter will toll eleven times followed by the Two Minutes’ Silence.

York Minster

22 - 24 Dec, 2024

Nine Lessons and Carols

Dec 20, 2024

Carols by Candlelight

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