Lichfield Cathedral Marks 10 Years of Christmas Light Shows with Follow the Star

This December, Lichfield Cathedral will celebrate ten years of its much-loved Christmas light shows, an event that has welcomed thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond in the lead-up to Christmas. Over the past decade, the light shows have become a highlight of the festive season, combining spectacular projection and music while sharing the message at the heart of Christmas.

To mark this milestone anniversary, the Cathedral is returning to the essence of the season with ‘Follow the Star’, a new experience that invites visitors to journey through the Nativity story.

Running from 15-21 December 2026, visitors will ‘Follow the Star’ through The Close, with projection shows on the Bishop’s Palace and the Cathedral’s iconic West Front before entering the Cathedral itself, where projections will illuminate the ceiling of the Nave. Created by acclaimed animation team Illuminos, the production combines light, music and storytelling to bring the Christmas story to life.

The Cathedral is using the anniversary year to recognise the massive team of people who help to make the event possible, including over 40 volunteers each evening, staff, local choirs and creative partners. And the tens of thousands of visitors who support the event every year, raising vital funds for the upkeep and work of Lichfield Cathedral.

The Rt Revd Jan McFarlane, Dean of Lichfield, said: “This is a special year for us as we celebrate ten years of Christmas light shows at Lichfield Cathedral. I want to personally thank everyone who helps with such dedication: our volunteers, staff, creative partners, choirs and all those who join us and make the event part of their Christmas tradition.

“Lichfield Cathedral is your Cathedral, and this year’s Christmas Light Show is an invitation to discover the Christmas story in a new light. We hope you will find a warm welcome and an opportunity to reconnect with the message of hope and joy that lies at the heart of Christmas.”

Alongside the Light Show, visitors will be able to enjoy seasonal music from local choirs, the Christmas Tree Festival, the Cathedral Crib, festive refreshments from SALT Café and Christmas shopping in the Cathedral Gift Shop.

Tickets are on sale now via the Cathedral website: www.lichfield-catheral.org/lightshow

The 2026 Christmas Light Show is kindly sponsored by Richard Winterton Auctioneers