Due to unforeseen circumstances, this event has been cancelled. 

Stephen Cottrell, the Archbishop of York, will be in the activity marquee next to our Christmas Tree Festival by the South Piazza from 10.45am on Saturday 4 December, to give a reading from his children’s book, The Sleepy Shepherd.

The Sleepy Shepherd is an enchanting Christmas tale for children that tells the story of Silas, who as a boy is so dozy that he completely misses the visit of the angels and the chance to greet the Christ-child in Bethlehem. But one crucial night, years later, he makes an important decision – to be a real shepherd to a man whose friends have all fallen asleep.

This is a free non-ticketed event, spaces for the reading will be limited and will operate on a first come first served basis. There will be an opportunity to buy a copy of the book and have it signed by the Archbishop.

There are other family-friendly events taking place at the Minster through the Advent and Christmas season including:

Experience Christmas Trail
Saturday 4 December to Thursday 6 January, 9.30am – 4pm

Discover more about the Christmas story by exploring six activity stops hidden around the Minster. Families can follow a special trail with items to look at, touch, smell and discuss at each point. There will also be interpretation encouraging adult visitors to spend time reflecting on what each stop tells us about the Christmas story. Free with general admission.

The York Minster Christmas Tree Festival
18 November 2021 to 6 January 2022, 10am – 7pm

Experience the Minster’s first Christmas Tree Festival set in the cathedral’s grounds. The new festival will take place in a festive marquee by the South Piazza and feature around 40 trees decorated by local businesses, schools and charities.

Visitors can vote for their favourite tree in the ‘best dressed tree’ competition and visit the activity marquee to write their own Christmas message on a tag to add to a tree there or inside the cathedral’s East End. Admission is free but donations are encouraged. No pre-booking required.

The Winter Village at York Minster
18 November 2021 – 6 January 2022, 10am – 7pm

The Winter Village at York Minster brings the best of both location and local produce to this brand new event. Situated at the foot of the majestic South Door of York Minster, The Winter Village comprises several decorative wooden cabins offering food, drinks, gifts and the perfect place to sit and admire the view. The Winter Village, which is being run in partnership with CMJ Events, will be open daily from 10am to 7pm. Entry is free.