Sheffield Cathedral is getting ready to welcome Christmas 2026, with a festive programme bringing together music, creativity, family fun, community and moments of quiet reflection at the heart of our city.
Our Christmas at the Cathedral guide is now available - download it below to explore everything happening this season.
“At Christmas and always, Sheffield Cathedral is a place for everyone – a home of light, hope and welcome at the heart of our city.”
— The Very Revd Abi Thompson, Dean of Sheffield
This Christmas, the Cathedral comes alive with celebrations of the joy, wonder and togetherness of the festive season.
One of the first major moments of the season is the return of our Christmas Tree Festival, where more than 40 sparkling trees - each decorated by a local charity, school, business or community group - fill the Cathedral with colour and warmth. From early December, this much-loved display creates a magical backdrop for all who visit, whether you’re exploring with family or simply taking a peaceful pause in the midst of the city’s winter bustle.
This year also sees the arrival of Stars of Wonder, a special Christmas appeal celebrating Sheffield, creativity and community. Running from 1 to 20 December, tickets will be available exclusively from our 1554 Gift Shop inside Sheffield Cathedral, with every entry receiving a limited-edition wooden Christmas decoration featuring a character from Pete McKee’s much-loved The Nativity artwork. Every ticket also enters you into the Stars of Wonder draw, with two lucky winners receiving their own steel star, handcrafted by the local Chimo Holdings LTD with recycled material provided by Kuusakoski LTD.
Families can join us for Cosy Cathedral Christmas on 6 and 13 December, with festive fun for children including a snowy craft trail, reindeer food making, storytelling, magical Christmas photos and the chance to send their wishes to Father Christmas. Curious visitors can also come along and see the Cathedral in a different light, on our Christmas edition of the After Hours Tour.
Music lies at the heart of Christmas at Sheffield Cathedral, with a wonderful programme of concerts offering opportunities to experience the season through the power of live performance. From the Mozart’s Requiem to the Beer & Carols singalong, there’s something to suit every musical taste, all within the breathtaking setting of the Cathedral.
Alongside the celebrations, the Cathedral continues its tradition of beautiful services that mark the spiritual heart of Christmas. The Advent Procession, Christingle, and Midnight Mass invite us into moments of reflection, candlelight, storytelling and shared hope - culminating in the profound stillness and joy of Christmas Eve.
Whether you join us to sing carols, admire the trees, enjoy family activities, discover something creative, hear beautiful music, or seek a moment of stillness or prayer, Christmas at the Cathedral is for everyone.
Our free booklet brings every concert, activity and service together in one place, helping you plan your perfect festive visit.
🎄 Come and celebrate the season with us - your Cathedral, shining at the heart of Sheffield.