FROM candlelit carols to cosy family films, there’s something for all the family to enjoy throughout the Advent and Christmas season at Salisbury Cathedral.

The busy season begins with a special Cantata Evensong on November 23, where the cathedral choir will be accompanied by period instruments performing Bach’s Wachet Auf.

This will be followed by the world-famous From Darkness to Light: The Advent Procession which will mark the official beginning of Advent, taking place from November 28 to November 30.

Over 4,500 people are expected to attend across the weekend as the Cathedral is plunged into darkness, before more than 1,000 candles are gradually lit, as two great processions move through the building with exquisite music and readings.

The service will begin at 7pm on Friday and at 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.

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Throughout Advent, there will be Advent Font Services every Sunday at 9am, offering an informal way to worship, which is open to all and child friendly.

The traditional Chorister Bishop Evensong that dates to medieval times will take place on December 7, where a senior chorister is elected to take the place of the Bishop on the Feast of St Nicholas.

The Snowman film with Live Orchestra Picture: Salisbury Cathedral

This year a boy will be selected and robed in traditional cope and mitre and will give the sermon in this special service.

Other highlights include Carols by Candlelight on December 22 and 23, when the story of the Nativity will be told through Bible readings, choral works, and beloved Christmas carols sung by the Cathedral Choir.

A particular musical highlight is Handel’s Messiah, performed in support of Salisbury Cathedral’s Choral Foundation.

Returning on December 13, this concert features the City of London Sinfonia, the full cathedral choir (men, girls, and boys), and four distinguished soloists. Pre-booking for a delicious dinner in the Refectory prior to the concert is also available.

Festive fun for families

The cathedral’s 32ft Christmas tree, adorned with over 1,000 twinkling fairy lights, will be installed on December 2.

Families are invited to enjoy the Festive Late-Night Opening on December 11, with free entry to the cathedral and a variety of activities: crafts, live music, behind-the-scenes tours of the private library and West Window, and photo opportunities beside the Nativity scene and floral displays.

A Family Crib Service for Christmas Eve Picture: Finnbarr Webster

Throughout December, families can enjoy Christmas Craft days and a Christmouse Activity Trail, all of which will use repurposed materials. There will also be three performances of The Snowman: Film with Live Orchestra on December 19.

For anyone wishing to revel in some nostalgia, all six episodes of John Masefield’s much-loved classic, The Box of Delights will be shown on December 5, giving viewers the unique opportunity to see the series on the big screen.

On December 20, don’t miss a full day of Christmas Crafts and Storytelling, ending with a festive film screening of The Muppet Christmas Carol, chosen by popular request.

For a breath-taking view of Salisbury at Christmas, join a Twilight Tower Tour and climb 332 steps to the base of the spire, where people can admire the city’s sparkling lights.

Carols by Candlelight Picture: Finnbarr Webster

Afterward, a festive lunch featuring traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings can be enjoyed at the Refectory Restaurant, or a simple mulled wine and a mince pie

The Cathedral Shop is the perfect place to find interesting and quirky Christmas gifts. New for this year are craft and construction kits and Christmas homeware.

These sit alongside traditional Nativity sets, Advent calendars, cards and a multitude of decorations and stocking fillers.

The Dean’s new book, The Twelve Joys of Christmas, will also be available to purchase, which explores the trappings and traditions associated with Christmas.

To learn more and view the full range of upcoming festive services and events, visit www.salisburycathedral.org.uk/advent-and-christmas/