Experience Advent and Christmas in the surroundings of Chichester’s 948 year-old Cathedral.
Step into this ancient place of worship, as we join together to journey through Advent, and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas Day. From the 3rd December an exciting programme of services, music, events and activities arrives at your Cathedral. Many of these are free and booking is not required, unless otherwise specified.
Read on to find out how you can take part. Chichester Cathedral is open for visiting Monday – Saturday (9.00am – 5.00pm) and Sunday (12.30 – 2.30pm). Please check the Cathedral website for further information, prior to your visit.
Worship & Music
On top of the Cathedral’s schedule of regular services, which all are invited to join, we are hosting a number of special services for Advent and Christmas.
Advent Procession
- Sunday 3rd December, 4.30pm, advance booking is not required.
Cathedral Carol Services
There are four opportunities to attend this year's Carol Service:
- Tuesday 19th December at 6.00pm
- Wednesday 20th December at 6.00pm
- Thursday 21st December at 6.00pm (also livestreamed)
- Friday 22nd December at 3.00pm
Advance booking is not required - doors will open one hour before each service.
Services on Christmas Eve
- Children's Crib Service, Christmas Eve, 2.00pm and 4.00pm. Advance booking is not required.
- Christmas Eve Evensong, 6.00pm. Advance booking is not required (also livestreamed).
- Midnight Mass, 11.00pm. Advance booking is not required (also livestreamed).
Services on Christmas Day
- Communion Said, 8.00am. Advance booking is not required.
- Christmas Day Service for Children, Families & Caregivers, 9.15am. Advance booking is not required.
- Christmas Day Choral Mattins, 10.15am. Advance booking is not required.
- Christmas Day Eucharist, 11.15am.* Advance booking is not required (also livestreamed).
*Please note - the Cathedral will close to the public for the rest of the day at 1.00pm.
Community Events
Chichester Cathedral Friends Advent Concert with the University of Chichester Conservatoire
Chichester Cathedral Friends are delighted to host an Advent Concert with music students from the University of Chichester Conservatoire on Monday 4th December 2023.
These talented students will perform a wide range of music including seasonal songs in a range of formats, from solos to groups such as the Otter Consort. The evening is an enjoyable way to enter into the spirit of goodwill at the start of the Christmas season in the lovely setting of Vicars’ Hall.
Sussex Festive Showcase
Join the team from the Cloisters Kitchen & Garden for a festive showcase of local suppliers, taking place in the Old Bakery - a cosy space adjoining the Kitchen.
A perfect opportunity to discover high quality local produce, and snap up some gifts before the festive season truly begins. Entry to the Showcase is free.
For Children & Families
Bertie the Cathedral Cat: A Chichester Christmas Tale
Meet Bertie! From 3rd December we invite you to learn about Bertie in an online animated story sharing how our feline friend finally snuck into the Cathedral, and welcomes a family to join the festivities.
Written and narrated by the Interim Dean of Chichester, The Reverend Canon Simon Holland, and illustrated by Sussex-based artist Chloe Robertson, you can discover the story online, via our website, or through our social media channels.
A very special Christmas Trail will also take place at the Cathedral - for you to spot Bertie enjoying the many treasures and artworks. Should you find all of the Berties, you’ll win a decoration for your Christmas Tree!
Story-telling in the Cathedral Nave
On Saturday 16th December (10.00am) join Interim Dean of Chichester, the Reverend Canon Simon Holland, as he shares the story of Bertie the Cathedral Cat in the spectacular setting of the Cathedral Nave. This event is suitable for children under 5, their siblings and parents/caregivers.