Stay inside the walls this weekend, check dates Check dates and book direct
If you are planning things to do in York this Christmas, York Minster deserves a place at the top of the list. The Minster has published its Advent and Christmas programme for 2026, and this year carries extra significance as the cathedral begins its 1400th anniversary year, which will be marked in 2027. Several of the most popular services now run on two dates to meet demand.
The Christmas Tree Festival opens on Saturday 28 November and runs until Tuesday 5 January 2027. The Minster says a record 100 trees will be on display across the Nave, North Transept, Chapter House and Lady Chapel, each decorated to its own theme by local businesses and charities, and you can add a Christmas message to a tag on the prayer trees. Entry is included with a general sightseeing ticket, and you do not need to book a time slot.
For music, the Christmas Carol Concerts return on Thursday 3 and Friday 4 December, both starting at 7pm with doors at 6pm. The Choir of York Minster performs traditional Christmas music in the Nave, with seasonal readings from special guest Ian Kelsey, music from the Yorkshire Volunteer Band and the chance to join in with the carols. Tickets are on sale now through the Minster box office.
The candlelit Advent Procession is one of the most atmospheric services of the year, starting in darkness before a single flame spreads light through the cathedral. New for 2026, there are two: Saturday 28 November and Sunday 29 November, both at 5.30pm. Free tickets are released at 10am on Tuesday 10 November for the first service and Thursday 12 November for the second.
Closer to Christmas, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols takes place on Wednesday 23 December and Christmas Eve, Thursday 24 December, both at 4pm. Free tickets open at 10am on Tuesday 8 December and Thursday 10 December respectively. On Christmas Day the Sung Eucharist is at 11am.
Tips for your visit
- Set a reminder for ticket release days: the Minster says its free ticketed services often book up very quickly.
- The Minster asks people not to bring large bags, backpacks or wheeled cases to concerts and services, so drop any shopping back at your accommodation first.
- Check the Minster's entry times before visiting the tree festival, as opening can vary around services.
Looking for a York city centre holiday let for Christmas? Our York apartment with parking sits inside the walls in the Skeldergate area, a pleasant walk from the Minster and handy as York Christmas market accommodation. Check your dates and book direct with us. Book direct
Stay inside the walls this weekend, check dates Check dates and book direct
Sources: York Minster: Advent and Christmas; York Minster: Advent and Christmas at York Minster 2026; York Minster: Christmas Tree Festival; York Minster: Christmas Carol Concerts; Visit York: Advent Procession; York Minster: The First Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols; York Minster: The Second Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols