Join in for Advent services, concerts, and festive events throughout December and beyond

Wells Cathedral is hosting a full calendar of festive events this Advent and Christmas, offering a range of services, concerts, and family-friendly activities for all to enjoy.

The Cathedral has prepared a packed schedule for those looking to embrace the festive spirit. From musical performances to opportunities for reflection, visitors can enjoy everything from the beautiful Vivaldi's Four Seasons by Candlelight to the joyful Carols by Candlelight concerts. The Cathedral is also hosting several family events, including the Christmas Story Trail and the Christmas Family Sing-Along.

Visitors can also take part in special services and offerings, such as the Christmas Prayers service, where they can write their own Christmas prayers to hang on the Prayer Tree in the Cloisters. The Cathedral is also offering the opportunity to sponsor a candle in honour of a loved one during the Carols by Candlelight concerts from 19 to 21 December.

The festive events include:

• Vivaldi's Four Seasons by Candlelight – 4 December, 7.30pm
• Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol – 7 & 14 December, 1.00pm & 3.00pm
• Karl Jenkins: The Armed Man – 7 December, 7.00pm
• Somerset County Schools' Celebration – 9 December, 7.00pm
• AGE UK Somerset Carol Service – 11 December, 11.00am
• Women's Institute Carol Service – 11 December, 2.30pm
• Christmas with the Bevan Family Consort – 13 December, 7.30pm
• Christmas at the Movies – 15 December, 7.00pm
• Opus Anglicanum: Medieval Carols – 16 December, 7.30pm
• Carols by Candlelight – 19, 20, 21 December, 7.00pm
• Christmas Sing-Along – 21 December, 10.00am
• Family Holiday Activities: Festive Foliage – 21 December, 11.15am–3.00pm
• Cathedral Carol Services – 23 & 24 December, 6.00pm
• 'Space' by Luxmuralis – 28 January – 1 February 2025

In addition to the performances and services, the Cathedral Shop is offering a festive shopping experience with 10% off on Wednesdays in the lead-up to Christmas, featuring handcrafted decorations and locally-sourced gifts. The Loft Café, open daily from 10am to 4pm, is serving seasonal treats and winter warmers.

Wells Cathedral is also continuing its Warm Spaces initiative for a third consecutive year, offering free teas and coffees in The Loft Café for those in need. Visitors are invited to contribute to the Warm Rail, which provides clothing donations to those in need.

The Cathedral remains open throughout the festive season, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day, providing opportunities for visitors to explore the Cathedral, attend a service, or simply soak up the Christmas atmosphere.

In January, the Cathedral will host promenade concerts as part of a unique opportunity to experience the open spaces of the Nave while it is cleared for cleaning.

With a variety of activities and services available, Wells Cathedral is a welcoming place for all to celebrate the Christmas season.