York Minster will start the countdown to Christmas at the weekend, with a procession and the opening of a festival.
Its Advent Procession will mark the start of Advent, a time-honoured part of the Christian calendar.
But there’ll be a big change for 2024 – as the Minster’s west front will be illuminated by new energy-efficient lighting.
The installation of the external LED lights is complemented by 184 new solar panels, now being fitted on its south quire roof, which will reduce the Minster’s energy consumption by around a third.
The lighting scheme is paid for by both the Minster and City of York Council.
It has been designed to minimise light pollution, “ensuring that the Minster’s medieval west front retains its prominence on the city’s skyline well into the night without disturbing the neighbours”.
There will be more lights on display inside the building for Advent with the launch of the Minster’s Christmas Tree Festival.
It opens with a light switch-on at ‘Minster Mash-Up’, York Minster’s special service for children and families, on Saturday (30 November) at 10am.
The Minster’s Nave, Chapter House, Lady Chapel and north quire aisle will be illuminated by more than 70 Christmas trees, each decorated and lit by charities, schools and organisations from across the city.
The festival is open during general admission times until 5 January.
Dean of York the Very Reverend Dominic Barrington said: “Every year, our Advent Procession starts in darkness with just a single candle illuminating the building.
“This year, the light will spread out into the city as the west front lights blaze to life, turning the Minster into a beacon shining over the historic city of York.”