As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus, our historic Cathedral offers a space for worship, reflection, beauty, and connection for all. Hear the uplifting voices of our renowned Choir, step into the glow of candlelight and Christmas trees, and take time to experience the joy of this season. With special services, concerts and family activities, we welcome everyone to share in the spirit of the Advent and Christmas seasons within these ancient walls. Click here to listen to the Dean's Advent reflections.
The Very Reverend Dr Edward Dowler, Dean of Chichester
A special candlelit service moving from darkness to light, as we await the coming of our Saviour Jesus Christ, with readings, congregational carols and music sung by the Cathedral Choir.
This service begins at 4.30pm, seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. This service will also be livestreamed.
Experience a service of readings and carols celebrating the Christmas story. There are four opportunities to attend this year's Carol Service:
There’s no need to book for these Services. Seating is available on first-come, first-served basis.
Children's Crib Service
11.00am & 2.00pm
Hear the Christmas story unfold as we sing carols and build the Christmas crib.
These services are specially designed to appeal to children, young people and their caregivers, but are open to all!
Children are also warmly invited to dress up as characters from the Nativity (angels, shepherds, sheep, donkeys, oxen etc.) if they wish!
No booking required - seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Christmas Eve Evensong
6.00pm
A service of Choral Evensong sung by the Cathedral Choir, with seasonal music and congregational carols.
No booking required - seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
This service will also be livestreamed.
Midnight Mass
11.00pm
The First Eucharist of Christmas, led by The Bishop of Chichester, with music sung by the Cathedral Choir.
No booking required - seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
This service will also be livestreamed.
Holy Communion (said)
8.00am
A service of Holy Communion according to the Book of Common Prayer, held in the Lady Chapel.
No booking required - seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Christmas Day Service for Children, Families & Caregivers
9.15am
A special Christmas Eucharist designed for children aged 0 – 12, plus their parents, guardians or caregivers.
No booking required - seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Christmas Day Choral Mattins
10.15am
Sung by the Cathedral Choir.
No booking required - seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Christmas Day Eucharist
11.15am
The Eucharist service for Christmas Day, led by the Bishop of Chichester, with music sung by the Cathedral Choir.
No booking required - seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
This service will also be livestreamed.
Please note - the Cathedral will close to the public for the rest of the day at 1.00pm.
A special service celebrating the arrival of the Magi at Bethlehem, featuring a living tableau of the Nativity scene and music from the choir of St Paul’s, Chichester.
The Feast of the Epiphany recalls the visit of the Magi, the wise men, to the infant Jesus, as recounted in the second chapter of St Matthew’s Gospel.
This service begins at 6.00pm, seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.