Christmas for Children and Families at Ely Cathedral

Christmas

for Children and Families Christingle Service The Big Christmas Tree Lights Switch-on Christmas Stories and Songs Community Christmas Carol Sing-a-long Christmas Holiday Drop-in Children’s Crib Services with special guests from the Donkey Sanctuary

There are lots of fun activities to look forward to this Christmas.

Admission to any of these events is free and everyone is very welcome!

Christingle Service in aid of the Children’s Society

Saturday 9 December, 3pm Christingle was established in 1747 as a symbol of Christ’s light and love and has since become a popular family celebratory and community event that takes place in churches and schools across the country. It is named after the Christingles that are lit during the service which are made from an orange decorated with red tape, sweets and a candle.

The Big Christmas Tree Lights Switch-on Service!

Sunday 10 December, 5.15pm Come and enjoy the biggest, most spectacular Christmas tree in Ely as we countdown to the switching on of the lights. This popular family event celebrates the festive season in song and prayer, concluding with the blessing of the magnificent tree complete with fairy dust! Take the opportunity for a family photo in front of the beautiful, sparkling tree.

Christmas Stories and Songs

Thursday 14 December, 10.30am Meet at the Christmas tree. A very special event for younger children re-telling the Christmas Story in the wonderful setting of Ely Cathedral. This short service will include storytelling, festive snacks plus songs and prayers in preparation for Christmas.

Recommended for children up to the age of 5 with their parents or carers.

Community Christmas Carol Sing-a-long

Saturday 16 December, 2pm Forget the Christmas shopping for an hour! Come and sing-a-long to your favourite carols accompanied by the Littleport Brass Band. With Christmas music, readings and prayers.

Christmas Holiday Drop-in

Wednesday 20 December, 10am - Noon A free drop-in to get the school holidays off to a festive start. The theme will be ‘Christmas Crafts’, including the chance to make prayer angels and paper snowflakes.

Recommended for children up to the age of 10. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Children’s Crib Services

Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 December, 3pm The children of the Cathedral re-tell the story of Christmas in this wonderful tableau of shepherds, angels, wise men and very special VIP guests ‘Daisy’ and ‘Midnight’ from the local donkey sanctuary. Sing carols and experience the awe and wonder as we enjoy the celebrations to mark the birth of Jesus.

Dressing up optional.

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Front cover image: Debbie Bellaby Illustration for The Friends of Ely Cathedral Christmas card available from our shops.