This December, Gloucester Cathedral will resonate with the enchanting sounds of carols and the warm glow of candlelight, welcoming visitors to a vibrant festive season steeped in tradition and community spirit.
The celebrations begin on Sunday, November 30, at 6 pm with the Advent Carol Service, marking the start of the new Church year within the cathedral’s majestic Gothic setting. Throughout the month, a variety of Advent and Christmas services will fill the cathedral with joyful hymnody and reverence, including the beloved Cathedral Carol Service held over three evenings—December 21, 22, and 23—each commencing at 6 pm.
Family-friendly services are specially scheduled on December 23 and Christmas Eve at 2:30 pm, offering a chance for younger visitors to partake in the festive worship. The solemn Midnight Mass begins at 11:15 pm on Christmas Eve, followed by a Christmas Day Eucharist at 10:15 am. Attendance is free, with no tickets required, although early arrival is recommended as seating is unreserved.
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Visitors will be immersed in a beautifully adorned interior, with lights and Christmas trees enhancing the Nave, Quire, and Cloister areas. Children can enjoy the Good Tidings Family Trail, a complimentary interactive journey through the cathedral’s Christmas story. Adding to the festive cheer, St Nicholas will visit on December 13 and 20, with no need for advance booking or fees.
For those seeking a magical evening experience, the Cathedral Christmas Experience at Night offers live music performances from the cathedral’s musicians on selected dates. Tickets are available at £8.50 for adults and £5 for children.
Gloucester Cathedral continues its commitment to supporting the local community through its partnership with Gloucester Foodbank, collecting donations of tinned goods and toiletries from November 29 to December 18 to aid families in need.
Music lovers can look forward to Carols on the Hour on December 6, featuring brief performances throughout the day starting at 11 am, and Britten’s Ceremony of Carols on December 7 at 4:15 pm.
The cathedral’s In Tune Music and Organ Campaign also offers a unique opportunity to sponsor a pipe in the new organ. Starting at £25, sponsors receive a gift pack, priority access to the June Organ Festival, and progress updates, available at the Cathedral Gift Shop or online.
Dean Andrew Zihni reflects on the season: “The angels proclaimed, ‘I bring you tidings of great joy’ – a timeless message of hope, love and peace. Whether you come to experience the quiet majesty of Advent or to celebrate the miracle of Christ’s birth, we extend a warm welcome to all.”
For further details, please visit the cathedral’s official website.