Christmas at the Cathedral
The Cathedral is at the centre of a thriving community who share in the celebration of Christmas as the birthday of Jesus. We welcome over 300,000 people during our Christmas festival, attending one of our many Christmas service and concerts and to explore the wealth of activities taking place in the Cathedral Close.
Christmas services
We hold many Christmas services in the Cathedral each year. Our pattern of services includes Advent carols, public carol services, children’s nativity services, Midnight Eucharist and Christmas Day services.See our service listings
Lantern procession
To mark the opening of the Christmas Market and ice rink a spectacular lantern procession takes place from Winchester’s Great Hall to the Cathedral. A number of public workshops are held in the weeks leading up to the event that all are welcome to attend.Find out more
Christmas Market
Founded in 2006, the Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe, renowned for its unique location, high quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere. You’ll find wonderful Christmas gifts, decorations and festive foods in abundance.Find out more
Ice Rink
Experience an exhilarating skate under the stars with friends and family. For five weeks over the Christmas period, our Inner Close is transformed by our Christmas Market and open-air real ice rink. See how the Cathedral provides a stunning backdrop to these exciting events.Find out more
Find out more
View our Christmas gallery
Experience the Christmas Market and ice rink through a selection of Christmas images
Download the guide to Christmas at the Cathedral
Find out about the Cathedrals services, events and concerts for the festive period
Christmas parties and corporate events
We offer a range of venues for private parties and special events