Bach: B Minor Mass
15 Mar 25
DetailsJoin us at York Minster as we prepare to celebrate Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ and the joy of the festive season.
Whether you are a regular worshipper, a first-time visitor, or simply looking to experience the beauty of Christmas at the Minster, you are warmly invited to join us for services, concerts, events, and visits throughout the season.
Join us online
Experience Advent and Christmas at York Minster from all over the world.
Join us as we live-stream some of the season’s most cherished services, alongside our regular programme of Sunday:
- Sunday 22 November, 4pm – Evensong featuring Bach’s Cantata 140.
- Sunday 29 November, 5.30pm – Advent Procession.
- Monday 14 December, 7pm – Sankta Lucia.
- Thursday 24 December, 4pm – Nine Lessons and Carols.
- Friday 25 December, 11am – Christmas Day Sung Eucharist.
Advent and Christmas for Families
Experience the joy of Advent and Christmas together as a family at York Minster.
Create treasured memories with loved ones as you discover a season filled with festive fun, wonder, and tradition. Families can enjoy a range of special events, including the much-loved Christmas Tee Festival, the enchanting Nutcracker family organ concert, and special family-friendly services that bring the Christmas story to life for all ages.
Join us and experience the wonder, warmth, and joy of Christmas at York Minster.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I visit the Christmas Tree Festival?
The Christmas tree festival is included in your general admission. York residents get free admission to the Minster with proof of address, which includes the Christmas Tree Festival. You do not need to book an entry time but we strongly recommend checking our entry times before travelling as we are a living cathedral and entry times can vary around services. To plan your visit please check our webpage Plan your visit | York Minster.
Do I have to pay to attend a service?
No.
Anyone wishing to visit York Minster for prayer, worship, lighting a candle, or speaking with a Chaplain is welcome free of charge. We open our doors 365 days a year to all who wish to use the Minster in this way.
Due to exceptionally high demand, some special services, including the Advent Procession, Sankta Lucia and Nine Lessons and Carols, require free pre-booked tickets to help us manage capacity and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Please note that these services are in high demand and often become fully booked very quickly after they are released.
When can I book tickets for Nine Lessons and Carols?
Free, in-person tickets will be available via this page or by calling 01904 557200 from 10am on Tuesday 8th December for the first service and Thursday 10th December for the second service.
When can I book tickets for Advent Procession?
Free, in-person tickets will be available via this page or by calling 01904 557200 from 10am on Tuesday 10th November for the first service and from 10am on Thursday 12th November for the second service.
When can I book tickets for Sankta Lucia?
Free, in-person tickets will be available via this page or by calling 01904 557200 from 10am on Tuesday 1st December 2026.
How can I book accessible seating for concerts/services?
For concerts; please call 01904 557200 (Mon-Fri 9:30-4) to book your tickets.
For services; please secure your tickets and then contact us on boxoffice@yorkminster.org or 01904 557200 (Mon-Fri 9:30-4) with your booking reference number and your accessibility requirements. If calling, please wait a day for our phone lines to clear to avoid long wait times.
Is there a waitlist for returned tickets?
No.
We do not keep a waitlist. Any tickets that are returned of back on sale immediately on our website.
Do children need a seat for services?
Babes in arms up to 2 years old can sit on laps with no ticket required. Children aged 2 and over require their own ticket and a seat.
Can I bring animals, food & drinks, large bags to the service/concert?
No animals may be brought into the Minster, except for service animals. We do not allow emotional support animals inside the Minster.
Food and drinks may not be brought into York Minster but you may bring a sealed bottle of water
Due to safety and space restrictions, large bags to be brought in for concerts/services including wheeled cases, backpacks and large shopping bags. We reserve the right to check bags on entry
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