About
Join York Minster’s worship to mark the start of Advent with an atmospheric and breath-taking candlelit service of music, readings and prayers, in celebration and anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World.
New for 2026, there will be two Advent Procession services. The first service will take place on Saturday 28 November, and the second on Sunday 29 November. The Sunday service will also be live-streamed via the York Minster YouTube channel and on the York Minster website so you can enjoy the service from the comfort of your own home.
The service, which will include music from the Choir of York Minster, starts in darkness before a single flame is used to spread light through the cathedral, with candles held by each member of the congregation.
Booking
We want as many people to join our Advent and Christmas worship as possible.
Free, in-person tickets will be available via the York Minster website or by calling 01904 557200 from 10am on Tuesday 10 November for the first service and from 10am on Thursday 12 November for the second service.
A small number of seats may be available at this service, in the event that those with pre-booked tickets do not attend. Those without tickets are invited to queue outside the Minster and will be admitted if space is available. Please note, there is no guarantee that congregation without pre-booked tickets will be admitted.
Doors will open at 4.30pm, ticket holders should be seated by 5.15pm.
York Minster Opening Hours
General visiting:
Mon – Sat: 9.30am – 5pm (last admission 4pm)
Sun: 12.45pm – 3.30pm (last admission at 2.30pm).
Please note these opening hours are subject to change. Please check our website for the most up to date information.