In recent years Sheffield Cathedral has built up a reputation for kicking off the city’s Christmas festivities in style with their spectacular lightshow. But this year it’s going to be extra special. Sheffield Cathedral Illuminated: Starlight, supported by Utilita Energy Hub, is making its debut.
If you’re first through the doors at 5.30pm on the night, you’ll be witnessing a world premiere.
And that’s not all, unlike previous years, the Cathedral is opening up its forecourt so anyone passing by can watch the dazzling projections on the exterior walls of this ancient building. Enjoy singing carols next to a 26-foot Christmas tree from 5pm every night until the lightshow starts including the first Family Sing-a-long on
Saturday 9 December!
Once inside visitors will go on a spectacular sensory journey with the three wise men. You’ll be immersed in a bespoke soundscape and dazzling light projections, following the starlight to the heart of the nativity story. Wander around the building and soak up the festive feelings of goodwill, see the beauty of more than 40 Christmas trees each decorated by a local charity, community group or business, sample seasonal treats in 1554 Coffee and Gift Shop and light a candle next to the famous Sheffield Steel Nativity.
“The most fabulous evening. Emotional, and very Christmassy with the music.”
Visitor to Sheffield Cathedral Illuminated: The Manger (2022)
The Very Revd Abi Thompson, Dean of Sheffield said: “I feel very honoured this city’s Cathedral will be hosting a world first. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate that Jesus Christ is light for all the world.
Opening up the forecourt so the whole of Sheffield can enjoy the sounds and sights of this year’s spectacular lightshow is our gift to the city. I hope as many people as possible join us this week and throughout Advent and Christmas as we share together in a variety of services filled with joy, wonder and light in this ancient place of worship.”
The Cathedral is once again collaborating with the award-winning Luxmuralis to bring this remarkable event to the city. Peter Walker, Artistic Director said: "We are thrilled to be returning to Sheffield Cathedral. It is a highlight of our calendar to bring art to the city at Christmas time, which it has embraced so wonderfully over the past few years.
We are delighted that this year the project will also allow more people to experience the outside of the Cathedral, before venturing inside to see this sacred place come to life through a truly immersive experience. We have a wonderful partnership with the fantastic team at the Cathedral and it is therefore fitting that we will present Starlight for the first time here in Sheffield.”
“A stunning light show at Sheffield Cathedral. Full of joy and wonder.
It really put me in the festive spirit.”
Visitor to Sheffield Cathedral Illuminated: The Beginning (2021)
Sheffield Cathedral Illuminated: Starlight opens at 5.30pm on Tuesday 5 December and runs for five nights through to Saturday 9 December. Thousands of tickets have already been bought and the event is proving to be so popular the Cathedral has had to make more tickets available. Tickets are priced £7.25 for adults, £6 for children aged 4 to 16. Children 3 and under are free. Family options also available.
For tickets please click here or visit the Cathedral Gift Shop.