ADVENT and Christmas are fast approaching – and a range of events have been announced at Salisbury Cathedral.
A spokesperson said the season “brings a special sense of anticipation and joy, combining world class music and atmospheric worship with festive events for all the family”.
The season begins with a special Cantata Evensong on November 24, where the Cathedral choir will be accompanied by period instruments performing Bach’s Wachet Auf, ruft uns die Stimme.
The world famous From Darkness to Light: The Advent Procession will mark the official beginning of Advent at the Cathedral from November 29 to December 1. The procession sees the Cathedral plunged into darkness before more than 1,000 candles are gradually lit as two great processions make their way through, accompanied by music and readings.
Other special services in the run up to Christmas will include Carols by Candlelight on December 22 and 23, where the story of the nativity will be told through bible readings, choral works and favourite Carols sung by the Cathedral choir.
The Salisbury Cathedral choir will be out in force during the festive season. Picture: Finnbarr Webster
A particular highlight will be Handel’s Messiah on December 7, in support of Salisbury Cathedral’s Choral Foundation.
The event will feature the City of London Sinfonia, the full Cathedral Choir and four distinguished soloists, including former chorister Camilla Harris, who will perform this well-celebrated piece of music that includes the famous Hallelujah Chorus.
Meanwhile, families are invited to visit the Cathedral’s landmark Christmas tree, which stands at more than 30ft tall and is decorated with more than 1,000 fairy lights.
It is set to be installed on December 2, followed by Festive Late-Night Opening on December 10, when entry is free and a range of activities including crafts, music, tours to the private library and West window, as well as lots of photo opportunities with the nativity scene, stunning floral arrangements and more on offer.
Craft days are also planned throughout December, as well as a Christmas nativity trail, and A Family Crib Service for Christmas Eve, and a modern retelling of the Nativity with carols from the Cathedral’s Youth and Junior Choirs.
And on December 14, there will be a Festive Film Screening of Home Alone – as voted for by the public – on the big screen.
READ MORE: Salisbury Cathedral choir releasing album of classic Christmas Carols
READ MORE: The challenge of installing a 32ft Christmas tree at Salisbury Cathedral!
More daring visitors can take in the sight of Salisbury at Christmas during a Twilight Tower Tour, where they can climb the 332 steps to the base of the spire and see the sparkling city from on high, before finishing the tour with a sweet treat from the Refectory Restaurant and a browse of the Cathedral shop.
The Very Revd Nicholas Papadopulos, Dean of Salisbury, said: “This is Advent, a season of anticipation and preparation. We are getting ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas. So bring your family and friends and join us in worship at one of our profoundly moving and uniquely inspiring services – or come to one of our special seasonal events.
“Enjoy the wonderful atmosphere of this glorious building at this time of year. I promise you a warm welcome: we will be delighted to see you.”
READ MORE: Click here for more events from your Salisbury & Avon Gazette
Leave a Reply