Christmas at Birmingham Cathedral (St Philips) on Colmore Row will include an outdoor market and grotto in Cathedral Square this year. The cathedral’s Clergy Team will officially open the market and bless those who visit at a special launch evening 6pm Thursday 15 November.
The unique location will lend itself to a festive array of locally sourced crafts, gifts, food and drink and will run from Thursday 15 November until Sunday 22 December. Families will be able to book in for a very special visit with Father Christmas and to enjoy the events and services happening inside the cathedral. The market will be home to one of the largest Christmas trees in the city.
For generations, families have made a point of visiting the cathedral as part of their Christmas celebrations. The cathedral team and congregation are delighted that worship will be going beyond the doors of the cathedral.
The cathedral will be hosting a full programme of worship, music and film events to celebrate Advent and Christmas. The cathedral’s coat donation appeal will be stepped up this winter. Wrap Up Brum will run from November until the end of December. 2017’s appeal saw people from across the city and beyond donate over 3,000 coats and warm jackets plus hundreds of hats, coats and scarves for the homeless community and those in need.
Members of the public will be able to donate coats at a chalet within the market. The cathedral team will then place the donated items on a rail outside the cathedral for those who need one. We will also continue to work with local charities including St Basils, Lets Feed Brum, The Salvation Army and SIFA Fireside to ensure the items reach those who the vulnerable in our city.
Anna Pitt, Chief Executive at Birmingham Cathedral said the cathedral has a commitment to engaging with the local community.
She said: “I am delighted that the market will offer commuters and those who work in the city an opportunity to dwell in Cathedral Square, enjoy the market, and spend time with their family and friends in the city centre. Those who visit the cathedral this year, whether for worship, the market, carols or events will find a very warm welcome.”
