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What’s On

September - December 2026

Concerts Events ||Fireworks FireworksSpectacular Spectacular||Christmas Christmas

Opening times The Cathedral is open daily 9am 5pm.

Please donate generously. We need to raise £8,000 a day to keep the Cathedral open. Scan the QR code to donate.

Tickets Book at www.stalbanscathedral.org or in person at our Box Office, located in the Cathedral Shop, or call 01727 890290.

Never miss what is coming up Sign up to our What’s On Newsletter for the latest events, concerts and seasonal highlights: www.stalbanscathedral.org/joinour-mailing-list

Welcome

St Albans Cathedral, home to Britain’s first saint, is the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain. Welcome to the winter edition of What’s On at St Albans Cathedral. This winter brings much to look forward to including our annual Fireworks Spectacular, a rich programme of music and events, the anticipation of the Advent season and the hope and joy of Christmas. This season is also an important one for our Diocese as the Rt Revd Andrew Rumsey is installed as the 11th Bishop of St Albans. As we look ahead, we also begin preparing for 2027 which is the Cathedral’s 150th anniversary. Do look out for some great celebrations next year. This is your Cathedral and you are always welcome. We look forward to seeing you soon. The Very Reverend Jo Kelly-Moore, Dean of St Albans

Contents

Your Visit 5 Visitor Highlights 7 Tours 8 Worship 12 Special Services 14 Advent and Christmas

Young People

Schools 19 Cathedral Archives and Library

Adult learning & Courses

Exhibitions, Concerts & Events

Music 30 St Albans Fireworks Spectacular

Coming Soon | Gaia Exhibition

Friends of St Albans Cathedral

All information is correct at the time of going to print | Cover image by Paul Wilkinson

The Story of Alban This is a story of an ordinary person doing an extraordinary thing, a story which still inspires. Alban lived around 300 AD in the Roman city of Verulamium. Alban gave shelter to Amphibalus, a priest fleeing persecution. With the authorities closing in, the two men exchanged cloaks allowing the priest to escape. Alban was taken before the judge where he declared himself a Christian, condemning himself to death. Alban was beheaded on the hill where the Cathedral now stands. Alban is Britain’s first saint. The story of friendship between Alban and Amphibalus is as relevant in our world today as it was 1700 years ago. St Albans Cathedral remains committed to offering welcome and sanctuary to all, and to witness God’s love in the world. 4

Your Visit There are many unique sights to take in when you visit St Albans Cathedral, making it a stunning setting for worship, events and tours. Opening times The Cathedral is open all year round | 9am - 5pm We need to raise £8,000 a day to keep this historic Cathedral open, so please donate generously.

How to book event tickets

Bookings for Cathedral events can be made through our website at www.stalbanscathedral.org, through our Box Office which is located in the Cathedral Shop, or by calling 01727 890290.

Planning your visit

Accessibility for all our visitors is an important part of our welcome and mission. Full information about planning a trip to St Albans Cathedral can be found at www.stalbanscathedral.org/visit.

Regular worship

All are welcome at our daily services, the heartbeat of this Cathedral’s active life. See page 12 for more details. Occasionally additional services will be added at short notice. Always check the website before making a special visit.

Abbot’s Kitchen

Open daily | 9am - 4pm Our wonderful café situated in the Welcome Centre is the perfect place to refuel during your visit. You can also grab a coffee from the Horsebox on the Orchard.

Cathedral Shop

Sundays - Fridays | open 10am - 5pm Saturdays | open 9am - 5pm Whether you are looking for a memento of your visit or searching for a gift, we are sure you will find something in our shop.

Group enquiries

We welcome groups from far and wide every day and can tailor tours to suit your group’s interest. Get in touch to find out more. Groups: 01727 890200 | Schools: 01727 890212

Support us

To find out more about how you can support the Cathedral go to www.stalbanscathedral.org/donate or call 01727 890229. 5

Lady Chapel

Cathedral Map

1 3 Welcome Centre Shop

North Transept

Crossing 4 5

South Transept

Café

Quire

Nave 1. Shrine of Saint Alban 2. Shrine of Saint Amphibalus 3. Presbytery and High Altar Screen 4. The Norman Tower

West End

5. Exhibition 6. Wall Paintings 7. Toilets

Visitor Highlights St Albans Cathedral is a great place to visit with the whole family – whatever the weather! From the longest nave in England to our Wondrous Wall Paintings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The Shrine of Saint Alban The Shrine of Saint Alban is a site of national and international pilgrimage. People have been coming here for over 1700 years and it is used as a place of prayer and stillness by visitors every day.

The Shrine of Saint Amphibalus Restored in 2021, this beautiful shrine to the other Saint in the Alban story makes this Cathedral the only one in the country with two medieval pedestal shrines.

The Norman Tower Our Norman Tower is the only 11th century great crossing tower still standing in England today. It is also the only cathedral tower in England to be built using Roman bricks. You can explore our tower on one of our Tower Tours, see page 9.

Wall Paintings See the wall paintings in the Nave restored to their former glory with unique light projections during our Daily Guided Tours.

The Longest Nave in England Enjoy walking the longest nave in England, all 85 metres of it! Take in the architecture and atmosphere of this vast space.

Rose Window Built in the 19th century, bathe in the beautiful light of our rose window in the North Transept. The stained glass was added in the 1980s and officially opened by Princess Diana.

Quiet Areas There are plenty of spots for reflection, prayer and quiet time in the Cathedral. Ask a volunteer or guide to show you to our quietest spaces. These include the Private Prayer Chapel and the Transfiguration Chapel.

Tours

Discover stories from 1700 years of history as you embark upon an exciting journey around the Cathedral on one of our special tours. Daily Guided Tours These tours are a great introduction to the Cathedral, its history and its treasures. Our expert Guides will take you through our rich and varied history, exploring features such as our stunning medieval wall paintings, spectacular stained glass windows, and the shrine of Alban, Britain’s first saint. Monday – Friday | 11.30am, 1.05pm and 2.15pm Saturday, 10.45am | 11.30am, 1.05pm and 2.30pm Sunday | 1.05pm and 2pm There is no charge for these tours, donations welcome. These tours are for individuals or small family groups only. Please see the website for details.

Private and Group Tours To allow you to make the most of your visit to the Cathedral, we require groups of six or more to book their tour in advance. The Guides can provide a general tour, something specially tailored to your group’s needs or particular interests, or one of our specialist tours. 8

Please contact us on mail@stalbanscathedral.org or 01727 890200.

Visually Impaired Persons’ Tour Last Friday of the month, 1.30pm We are delighted to be able to offer our guided tours to individuals with visual impairments. A dedicated group of Guides has been trained to deliver these guided tactile tours so that our magnificent building can be made more accessible. Tickets are available from our website and the Cathedral Box Office. No charge but donations welcome.

More to Explore Tours Discover more of the treasures of the Cathedral with an experienced Guide. All tours start at 1.30pm. Unmasking the Apostles | Sunday 20 September Angels and Demons | Sunday 18 October The Twelve Days of Christmas | Sunday 22 November Tickets are available from our website or the Cathedral Box Office.

Tower Tours Join our expert Guides on a visit behind closed doors to explore the roof spaces including the ringing chamber, before the final climb onto the roof of the tower. There is a total of 211 steps up to the top of the oldest cathedral tower in Britain, where you will be rewarded with fantastic views of St Albans (weather permitting). Longer ‘Tower and Treasures’ tours are also available. Tickets available from our website. Restrictions apply. Please see our website for dates and details.

Specialist Tours Discover the hidden treasures of the Cathedral and learn more about its fascinating history on one of our specialist tours. Selected dates and times. Tickets available from our website.

New this autumn!

1077 and all that In 1077 Paul of Caen set about rebuilding the Abbey Church. Hear about the changes that he and his successors made in the monastery and learn about their dealings with notable people of their day including Thomas Becket, Pope Adrian IV and Christina of Markyate.

The Graveyard Slot This tour will explore some of the curiously 10

spooky memorials inside the Cathedral. Hear the stories of people who have been buried here and the part they played in the Abbey’s history and see how death has been portrayed down the ages.

Lest we Forget At Remembrancetide, discover some of the

many war memorials in the Cathedral, a building built in honour of a brave man who died rather than give up his Christian faith. Hear how those who have died, many in the service of others, are commemorated in different ways.

Also available... Rogues and Rebels From murder, witchcraft and heresy to

challenging the laws and norms of their day, this tour tells the stories of those men and women associated with the Abbey Church who, over the centuries, have stood up for their beliefs.

The Wars of the Roses This tour explores how the power

The Craft of the Carpenter This tour explores the fascinating woodwork in the Cathedral, focusing on skilled carpentry from the medieval to modern times.

Turbulent Tudor Times Through a century of religious changes and reform, this tour tells the story of the English Reformation and its impact on the Abbey.

Other tours available Amazing Architecture, Flora and Fauna,

Latin Inscriptions, Making your Mark (graffiti), Royal Connections, Stained Glass, and Wondrous Wall Paintings.

Abbey by Night Wednesdays 14 October, 4 November and 11 November As darkness descends and candles are lit, be transported back to the medieval abbey and meet the characters – both monks and pilgrims – to whom this great abbey was home. See and hear the inspiring tales they have to tell. Tickets available from our website. 11

Worship Regular Services © Still Cast Photography

We welcome all to worship, whether in services, prayer, a moment of stillness, or lighting a candle. Sundays 8am 9.30am 11.30am 11.30am 12.30pm 4pm

Eucharist Parish Eucharist Choral Eucharist Choral Matins (3rd Sunday) Eucharist (3rd Sunday) Choral Evensong

Weekdays 7.30am 8am 12 noon 5pm

Morning Prayer Eucharist Eucharist at the Shrine Evensong (Evening Prayer on Fridays)

Saturdays 8.30am 9am 12 noon 5pm

Morning Prayer Eucharist Eucharist in the Lady Chapel Choral Evensong

Monthly Services

Regular special services held on set days each month.

Ecumenical Services

The Cathedral has a thriving Ecumenical Chaplaincy, regularly holding services for different Christian traditions. Roman Catholic Mass is celebrated every Friday at 12 noon. German Lutheran A service in German is held on the last Tuesday of every month at 7pm. Free Church A service is held on the first Wednesday of every month at 11am. Orthodox Liturgy A service is held once a month on a Tuesday at 10.30am. Please see our website for more information. A Day Chaplain is available to talk with most days.

Prayer Cards & Private Prayer There are many locations in the Cathedral to light a candle in a moment of private prayer. For extra guidance some of these locations have prayer cards that you are welcome to take with you on your journey and pilgrimage.

Evening Pilgrimages Evening Pilgrimages offer a guided walk through the Cathedral, accompanied by historical insights, prayers, and silence. They are suitable for parishes, ecumenical groups, prayer groups and deaneries. They start with refreshments in the Welcome Centre, and end with Compline by candlelight and a visit to the Shrine of St Alban. Evening Pilgrimages must be booked in advance on our website. There is no charge but donations are welcome.

Special Services The Cathedral hosts many special services throughout the year. Installation of the Rt Revd Dr Andrew Rumsey as 11th Bishop of St Albans

Saturday 19 September, 2pm Join us for this significant moment in the life of the diocese as Bishop Andrew is installed in his cathedra. There will be celebrations throughout the day. To prepare for the service the Cathedral will be closed for visiting. To manage capacity this service is ticketed. Tickets available on our website.

Bag Blessing

Sunday 13 September, 9.30am As a new school year begins, we will pray for children, young people, teachers, and school staff. Please bring your school bag or work bag to be blessed!

Evensong with Admission of Choristers and Lay Clerks

Sunday 20 September, 4pm Evensong sung by the boys, girls and Lay Clerks, marking the beginning of the new choir year.

Admission and Licensing of Readers

Sunday 27 September, 4pm Bishop Jane admits and licenses new Readers to the diocese in this celebration of Lay Ministry. We give thanks for 160 years of Reader ministry.

Pet Blessing Service

Sunday 4 October, 2pm Bring all creatures great and small along for a service celebrating our pets and the joy they bring. Short, informal and suitable for all.

14 © Toby Shepheard Photography

Harvest Festival

Sunday 11 October, 9.30am, 11.30am and 4pm We celebrate God’s creation and generous provision as we support others in our Harvest collections at all our services.

The Mayor’s Civic Service

Sunday 18 October, 11.30am In this annual service, we give thanks for our city and district and reflect the mayoral theme for the year of ‘belonging through service’.

Diocesan Confirmations

Sunday 24 October, 7.30pm Join us as we celebrate those being baptised and confirmed. Candidates will affirm publicly their faith in Jesus Christ. If you would like to explore confirmation please speak to a member of the clergy.

All Saints’ Sunday

Sunday 1 November, 9.30am and 11.30am Morning services will celebrate the life and witness of the saints whose example inspires us.

All Souls’ Requiem Eucharist

Sunday 1 November, 4pm An opportunity to remember our loved ones who have died and now find their rest with God. Members of the bereavement team will be available after the service.

Remembrance Sunday Requiem Eucharist

Sunday 8 November, 10.55am We give thanks for the dedication and service of those who have served and those who gave their lives in wars past and present. The service will begin with an Act of Remembrance.

The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire’s Justice Service

Sunday 15 November, 11.30am The High Sheriff’s annual service gives thanks for all who administer law and order in the county.

Solemn Evensong and Benediction for Christ the King

Sunday 22 November, 4pm The last Sunday of the liturgical year, where we celebrate Christ as Lord over all creation. For more information about worship, please visit our website.

15 © J. Christos

16 © Toby Shepheard Photography

Advent & Christmas Look out for our special Advent and Christmas brochure for full details in December. The Advent Procession

Sunday 29 November, 6pm

West Herts Hosptials Trust - Christmas Charity Concert Tuesday 1 December, 7pm

Willow Foundation - Christmas Charity Concert Wednesday 2 December, 7.30pm

St Albans Bach Choir Carol Concerts Saturday 5 December, 3pm and 7pm

Hospice of St Francis - Christmas Charity Concert Sunday 6 December, 6.30pm

Cathedral Choir Christmas Concert Friday 11 December, 7.30pm

Carols on the Hour

Saturday 12 December, 11am - 5pm, on the hour every hour

Live Nativity Trail

Saturday 12 December, 12 noon - 3pm

Parish Eucharist with Nativity Play Sunday 13 December, 9.30am

Christingle Service

Sunday 13 December, 2pm

Compline by Candlelight Sunday 13 December, 6pm

Lessons and Carols

Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 December, 7.30pm

Crib Services

Thursday 24 December, 11am and 2pm

Christmas Eve Evensong Thursday 24 December, 5pm

Midnight Mass

Thursday 24 December, 11pm

Christmas Day

Friday 25 December Eucharist | 8am Parish Eucharist | 9.30am Choral Eucharist | 11.30am

Boxing Day Carols

Saturday 26 December, 4pm

Families & Young People We offer an exciting array of groups and events for young people at the Cathedral. Abbey Tots Tuesdays, 10am, Offa Room

Come along to this popular parent and toddler group for pre-schoolers and their parents or carers. No charge, tickets available on our website. Donations welcome.

Abbey Tots Service Thursdays, 10am, St Michael Chapel Our service for pre-school age children includes Bible stories, songs and prayers, as well as a snack.

Xcite Fridays, 6.30pm - 8pm, Alban Room A youth group for those aged 8 - 12, meeting during term time. It is the perfect opportunity to socialise and have fun with friends.

Youth Group 1st and 3rd Sundays each month during term time, 7pm - 8.15pm Our fun and sociable youth group for ages 13 - 17 meets for games, conversation, hot chocolate and activities twice a month.

Contact our Children and Youth team for more information: children@stalbanscathedral.org

Bag Blessing

Sunday 13 September, 9.30am Join us for our annual Bag Blessing. Find out more on page 14.

Toddler Toddle

Tuesday 22 September, 10am Join us during Abbey Tots for our Toddler Toddle! Little ones can enjoy a short, sponsored walk around the Cathedral whilst being cheered on by our Abbey Tots team.

Family Christmas Services and Events Live Nativity Trail Saturday 12 December, 12noon - 3pm Parish Eucharist with Nativity Play Sunday 13 December, 9.30am Christingle Service Sunday 13 December, 2pm Crib Services Thursday 24 December, 11am and 2pm

Schools There are plenty of fun activities, events and interactive experiences for our young visitors. To find out more or to book any of the events below, please contact the Learning Department on 01727 890212 or education@stalbanscathedral.org

Roman Festival Week Monday 21 September - Friday 25 September, 10am - 2.30pm | Ideal for KS2 pupils Bring history to life with our engaging Roman Festival week. This immersive experience features a carousel of three interactive workshops, and the opportunity to meet a Roman Soldier!

Jewish Living Experience Exhibition Monday 12 October - Friday 23 October | KS2, KS3 & GCSE students An exhibition to introduce and enhance the understanding of Judaism, and meet people of the Jewish faith.

Multifaith Day Wednesday 21 October | GCSE and A Level Students A carousel led event including workshops, talks and speakers from a variety of faiths.

Speak Your Mind - Sixth Form Conference Wednesday 11 November, 1.30pm - 3.30pm | A Level students. Based on BBC TV’s Question Time, an afternoon of topical debate with high profile figures from politics and media.

Christmas Trails Throughout November & December | EYFS, KS1 & KS2 What better way to learn about the festival of Christmas than in the beautiful setting of the cathedral?

Cathedral Library and Archives Cathedral Library Come and visit our cosy library to browse and borrow books or as a quiet space to read and work in. Make sure to visit our collection for Young Readers or join our monthly Book Club. Visit our website for more details about opening times.

The Archives A treasure trove of photographs, books, letters, drawings, and other documents that tell the story of the Cathedral and Abbey. The Archives can be visited by appointment, usually on Monday afternoons in term-time. Email archives@stalbanscathedral.org to book a visit to the Archives.

Adult Learning A rich programme designed to explore faith, history and culture from many different angles. The Romantic Movement in Literature Thursday 24 September, 7.30pm - 9pm | Alban Room and Online Join Prof. Tim Boatswain to explore how Romantic writers elevated the outsider, the dreamer, and the inner hero – arguing that authentic understanding lies not in cold rationality, but in the human heart. Tickets £12 (£6 students), available from our website.

From Black Death to Dissolution: the Making, Breaking and Re-shaping of Monks at St Albans Thursday 1 October, 7.30pm - 9pm | Alban Room and Online Who were the monks of St Albans Abbey after 1349? Join Dr Norman James to explore the lives of the monks of England’s premier Benedictine house, from recruitment and training to the Dissolution in 1539. Tickets £12 (£6 students), available from our website.

The Littleness of God: Introducing Francis of Assisi Saturday 10 October, 10am - 3.30pm | Alban Room Marking the 800th anniversary of Francis of Assisi’s death, this study day sets the famous saint in his historical context, introduces the key themes of his spirituality and theology, and explores his legacy. Tickets £35, available from our website. 22

The Book That Changed the World: William Tyndale and the Battle for the English Bible Thursday 15 October, 7pm – 8.30pm | St Peter’s Church St Peter’s Church and St Albans Cathedral are proud to present an extraordinary dramatic performance to mark the 500th anniversary of the publication of Tyndale’s New Testament. Tickets £12 (£6 students), available from our website.

Nourishing Prayer: Making Sense of Holy Communion Tuesday 27 October, 7.30pm – 9pm | Online Join the Revd Dr Sam Hole as he discusses his new book, which offers an accessible devotional introduction to Holy Communion. Tickets £12 (£6 students), available from our website.

Justice Café: Prisons on the Table Monday 9 November, 6pm – 7.30pm | Abbot’s Kitchen We launch the new Justice Café series with an open discussion exploring three different perspectives: that prisons should be improved, made tougher, or abolished altogether. No charge but please book your place on our website, donations welcome.

The Heretic and the King: How William Tyndale Laid the Foundations for the English Bible Tuesday 10 November, 7pm – 8.30pm | St Albans Cathedral 2026 marks the 500th anniversary of one of the most important books published in English. This lecture tells the dramatic story of what Tyndale did, the odds he fought against, and of how his book became a pillar of England’s Reformation. Tickets £12 (£6 students), available from our website.

Medieval Carols Friday 4 December, 7.30pm – 9pm | Quire Join Jeremy Summerly and a quartet of singers from Oxford Camerata for a journey into the rich world of medieval carols and discover how Christmas was celebrated back in the day. Tickets £15 (£7.50 students), available from our website.

Festive Handblock Printing Saturday 5 December, 10am – 1pm, Alban Room Discover traditional Indian handblock printing and create a set of bespoke linen napkins. Tickets £95, available via our website.

Courses

All courses, including language courses, can be taken as part of the Certificate in Theology and Certificate Plus. Divine Poetry Mondays 21 September - 19 October, 7.30pm – 9.15pm | Online

The Christian faith has inspired some of the English language’s most remarkable poetry, combining arresting beauty and profound spiritual insights. In this 5-week course, you will explore the works of John Donne, George Herbert, Christina Rossetti, T.S. Eliot and Malcolm Guite. Tickets £75, available from our website.

An Introduction to Church History Wednesdays 23 September – 2 December (excl. 28 October), 7.30pm– 9.15pm | Online

This course explores the Church’s remarkable transformation. You will consider how it has been both a voice for the oppressed and exhibited the characteristics of the powerful as it has grown and changed through its history. Tickets £135, available from our website.

Voices of Love and Fire: Medieval Women Mystics and the Experience of God Mondays 2 November – 30 November, 7.30pm – 9.15pm | Online

This course explores the rich world of medieval mystical theology through the writings of remarkable women; from Julian’s vision of divine love, to Margery’s embodied spirituality, to Hildegard’s cosmic imagination, and Catherine’s passionate call to renewal, we will encounter a Christianity that engages the mind, body, and soul. Tickets £75, available from our website.

Languages Beginners’ Latin

Mondays 21 September – 19 October, 7.30pm – 9pm | Alban Room This 5-week course with Latin tutor Clare Harvey will introduce you to the language and give you the basic skills needed to read and translate original texts. Tickets £75, available from our website.

Beginners’ Hebrew Tuesdays 3 November – 15 December (excl. 24 November), 7.30pm – 9pm | Online This 6-week course introduces Biblical Hebrew, one of the foundational languages of the Old Testament. Dr Stefano Salemi offers an introduction to grammar, vocabulary and basic syntax, while also placing the language within its historical and cultural context. Tickets £85, available from our website.

Latin Reading Group

Monthly on a Wednesday evening, 7.30pm - 8.45pm | Online Discover a glimpse of the early Church and read Christian writers from across the ancient and medieval world in the original Latin with tutor Jane Manson. £10 per session, available from our website.

New Testament Greek Reading Group

Monthly on a Monday evening, 7.30pm - 8.45pm | Online Read and translate passages from the New Testament and Septuagint, exploring both language and interpretation. Discover visions, songs and letters in this friendly intermediate level group with tutor Bex White. £10 per session, available from our website.

Biblical Hebrew Reading Group

Monthly on a Tuesday evening, 7.30pm - 8.45pm | Cathedral Library and Online Undertake close reading of the Hebrew texts in their original language, meeting ancient ancestors and diving into group discussion led by tutor Rabbi Adam Zagoria-Moffet. No charge, suggested donation £10 per session. Please book your place on our website.

Old English Reading Group

Monthly on a Tuesday evening, 7.30pm 8.45pm | Online Explore storytelling, heroes and the Anglo-Saxon imagination through original Old English texts with tutor Caroline Godden. £10 per session, available from our 25 website.

Exhibitions Step into exhibitions that invite you to pause, wonder, and explore ideas spanning nature, humanity, faith, science, art, and more. Wildlife Photography Exhibition Friday 2 October - Sunday 11 October | North Transept A wildlife photography exhibition celebrating the rich diversity of nature in and around St Albans Cathedral. This collection presents striking images that capture rare encounters and intimate behaviours from across the area. This exhibition hopes to inspire appreciation, curiosity, and a lasting interest in the nature that inhabits this very special area.

Called As We Are Wednesday 11 November - Thursday 26 November | North Transept Called As We Are is a photographic exhibition depicting twelve leaders in the Church of England. Some are living with physical disability, one is Deaf and others are neurodivergent. The photoset, taken by photographer Ruth Samuels (who herself lives with ME) comprises twelve beautiful and inspiring photographs which will be displayed in the North Transept.

Bishops: Builders of the Diocese Monday 7 September - Sunday 6 December | Exhibition Area Celebrate the installation of the 11th Bishop of St Albans with a special exhibition exploring the lives and legacy of all eleven bishops. Discover what a bishop does and see fascinating artefacts, photographs, and some very special items from across the Diocese’s history. Exhibitions are free of charge, although donations are welcome.

Concerts & Events

Tickets and more information about our upcoming concerts and events can be found on our website.

Concerts International Organ Festival Recital Saturday 12 September, 6.30pm Award winning organist Martin Baker will give a recital.

Tunde of Lighthouse Family

Friday 2 October, doors open from 7pm Singer Tunde of Lighthouse Family will be performing live!

Boney M Saturday 3 October, doors open from 7pm Disco powerhouse Boney M will be performing live!

Hertfordshire Chorus - Elgar: From the Bavarian Highlands

Saturday 17 October, 7.30pm Hertfordshire Chorus perform Elgar’s From the Bavarian Highlands, Parry’s Songs of Farewell, Jonathan Dove’s The Passing of the Year and Philip Glass’s Three Songs.

World Voices Festival: The Concert

Sunday 18 October, 7.30pm Join us for an extraordinary night of contemporary choral music, featuring gospel, pop, a cappella, and musicals, culminating in a breathtaking 200-voice finale.

90’s Silent Disco

Friday 23 October, 8pm ‘Silent Discos in Incredible Places’, is returning to the Cathedral this time for a 90s-themed evening!

‘The Zombies Begin Here’ Festival

Saturday 31 October, 7.30pm ‘The Zombies Begin Here’ Festival returns to honour the band’s extraordinary catalogue, legacy, and their St Albans origins.

In the Dark - HUSH

Friday 13 November, 6.45pm and 9.15pm Step into complete darkness and discover HUSH, the original In The Dark experience. Surrounded by live musicians, you’ll leave the outside world behind and experience music like never before. No distractions. No expectations. Just the music.

St Albans Bach Choir: There was a Child Jonathan Dove & Requiem Gabriel Fauré

Saturday 14 November, 7.30pm Join St Albans Bach Choir as they perform Dove’s There Was a Child and Fauré’s Requiem in D minor, Op. 48. Two unique and moving masterpieces.

Luther Vandross: The Candlelight Concert

Saturday 21 November, 7.30pm Join us for an evening honouring the timeless music of Luther Vandross. An incredible live band bring his greatest hits to life in a stunning candlelit setting.

Christmas Orchestra

Saturday 28 November, 6.45pm and 8.45pm Prepare to immerse yourself in the magic of the festive season and create lasting memories together! The concert is performed live by a 16 piece chamber orchestra.

St Albans Bach Choir: Carol Concerts

Saturday 5 December 3pm - particularly suitable for young children 7pm - for all the family Two concerts of Christmas Carols performed by St Albans Bach Choir with the London Metropolitan Brass Quintet, James McVinnie (organ) and conducted by William Fox.

Community Events Mary’s Meals Film Screening

Thursday 22 October, 7.30pm This film shows how education, nutrition, and the kindness can not only transform one child’s life but can also impact the lives of future generations.

St Albans Community Showcase

Saturday 24 October, 11am Discover the heart of our community at the St Albans Community Showcase. This unique gathering features over 60 charities and community organisations dedicated to making a difference in our local community.

Artisan Craft Fair

Saturday 7 November, 11am - 3pm Browse a curated selection of handmade goods from local artisans, with unique crafts, gifts and beautifully made pieces to discover. 29

Music Lunchtime Live

All concerts take place on Mondays at 12.30pm Step away from the rush and unwind with half an hour of chamber or instrumental music. 21 September

Organ Recital: Phoebe Tak Man Chow

5 October

Young Artists: Pupils from St Albans School

19 October

Organ Recital: Michael D’Avanzo (Organ Scholar, St Albans Cathedral)

9 November

Young Artists: Pupils from Tring Park School for the Performing Arts

23 November

Organ Recital: Paul Greally (Assistant Organist, Westminster Abbey)

Festive Music Highlights Christmas Organ Recital

Sunday 6 December, 1pm Performed by Dewi Rees, Assistant Director of Music, this recital includes famous Christmas works for organ, arrangements of Christmas classics including The Nutcracker and Sleigh Ride, and audience carols.

Cathedral Choir Christmas Concert

Friday 11 December, 7.30pm Join the Cathedral Choir for a fabulous evening of Christmas music, featuring seasonal favourites, readings, and opportunities for the audience to raise the roof with carols.

Carols on the Hour 30

Saturday 12 December, 11am - 5pm Including the Youth Choir and choir alumni who will be singing at 3pm.

Youth Choir Tuesdays, 6.30pm - 7.30pm An auditioned chamber choir for Year 10 - 13 students who love singing. Currently recruiting tenors and basses. Find out more details on our website.

Compline sung by the Youth Choir A reflective service for the close of the day. 13 September Lady Chapel 11 October Lady Chapel 8 November Lady Chapel 13 December Compline by Candlelight, Quire

Junior Choir Mondays during term time, 4.45pm - 5.15pm or 5.15pm - 6pm The Cathedral’s youngest choir is open to all in Reception - Year 6, and no audition is required. We have two open rehearsals per term to offer a taste of what we do. Email mail@stalbanscathedral.org for further information.

Play the Organ evening

Monday 7 September, 6pm An opportunity for young organists to play the Cathedral’s 4-manual Harrison & Harrison organ. Limited slots available. Please email organeducation@stalbanscathedral.org

Fireworks Spectacular Saturday 7 November, 7.30pm in Verulamium Park. Gates open at 6.30pm. Come and enjoy a spectacular display in aid of local charities Isabel Hospice and Herts Domestic Abuse Hotline. Early bird tickets (available until Friday 16 October) Adult £10 | Children under 16 £6 | Family £28.50 | Children 3 and under free. On the night prices Adult £15 | Children under 16 £10 | Family £40. Tickets available from our website.

Gaia Tuesday 5 January - Saturday 13 February 2027 Suspended inside the nation’s longest cathedral nave from January 2027, Luke Jerram’s Gaia will bring our own blue & green planet into breathtaking view. This awe-inspiring installation offers a remarkable perspective of Earth as seen from space, reminding us of its vastness as well as its fragility. You can experience Gaia in stillness and quiet reflection, or alongside a dramatic programme of concerts and special events for a truly atmospheric experience. Look out for full details and the event schedule. www.stalbanscathedral.org/gaia

The Friends of St Albans Cathedral The Friends of St Albans Cathedral is an independent charity providing financial and practical support to the Cathedral. The Friends play a vital role in enabling the life and work happening in our glorious building to develop and thrive, as it has done for nearly 1000 years.

The Friends of St Albans Cathedral is a key part of the ongoing flourishing of our mission and ministry through its generous support. The Very Reverend Jo Kelly-Moore, Dean of St Albans For more information on how to join the Friends and support our valuable work, visit us at www.stalbanscathedral.org/friends or email us at friends@stalbanscathedral.org.

Friends of St Albans Cathedral St Albans Cathedral Sumpter Yard, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1BY

“... every time I visit, it feels like the first time. There’s just something breathtaking about it.”

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St Albans Cathedral Sumpter Yard, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1BY Cathedral Office: 01727 890210 Email: mail@stalbanscathedral.org Registered Charity Number 1207312 www.stalbanscathedral.org

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Mar tyr ’s Garden

MARTYR’S GARDEN

St Albans Cathedral Flower Festival Tuesday 18 - Saturday 22 May 2027

Limited Super Early Bird Tickets Available www.stalbanscathedral.org/flowers