If you’re lucky enough to be in York at Christmas, there’s one place you really must follow the twinkling lights to: York Minster. A joy at any time of year, York Minster is even more magical at Christmas, with lots of reasons to visit, from the fabulous Christmas Tree Festival to carol concerts and a special children’s performance. Here are our best bits for families at York Minster this Christmas (and you’ll find ALL of the Minster’s Christmas events here)
Explore the Christmas Tree Festival
One tree is lovely, but how about a whole cathedral full? York Minster’s popular Christmas Tree Festival returns for its sixth year, with more trees than ever before, each decorated by a local school, charity or business, including Little Vikings!
Pick up a Christmas Quest trail sheet and see what you can spot as you explore. Choose your favourite tree, cast your vote and leave your own Christmas message on one of the festive prayer trees. The festival begins with a special family service and lights switch-on on Saturday 28 November at 10am.
Useful information
- When: Saturday 28 November 2026 to Tuesday 5 January 2027, during sightseeing hours
- Where: York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Tickets: Included with a sightseeing ticket. Up to four children aged 17 and under go free with each adult sightseeing ticket
- Good to know: York residents enjoy free sightseeing admission with proof of address. Some trees may have flashing lights
- Find out more: York Minster Christmas Tree Festival
Enjoy a magical performance of The Nutcracker
Handmade puppets, wonderful storytelling and the sound of York Minster’s Grand Organ: this family performance of The Nutcracker promises a festive evening to remember.
Join Gemma Sharp from Hoglets Theatre and organist Ben Morris for a journey into Tchaikovsky’s world of the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Mouse King and the land of sweets. Children can come in their pyjamas and bring a favourite toy too. Just wrap up warmly for an evening in the Minster!
Useful information
- When: Saturday 5 December 2026, 7pm
- Where: York Minster’s Nave
- Tickets: Adults £12; children £6
- Recommended age: 7+
- Good to know: Children over two need their own seat. A buggy park will be available
- Booking: Book The Nutcracker tickets or call 01904 557200
Celebrate Christmas Eve at the family Crib Service
Have a little shepherd, angel or wise person at home? They’re invited to dress up and join York Minster’s special Christmas Eve service for families.
With carols, music and imaginative storytelling, it’s a lovely opportunity to hear the Christmas story together and celebrate the blessing of the crib before the excitement of Christmas morning. It’s free to attend, too, with no booking required.
Useful information
- When: Thursday 24 December 2026, 11.30am
- Where: York Minster
- Admission: Free, with no tickets or pre-booking required
- Good to know: Doors open at 10.30am. Children are encouraged to dress as characters from the Nativity
- Find out more: York Minster Crib Service
