For 2023, Lichfield Cathedral promises another spectacular show delivered by the acclaimed animation team: Illuminos. There will be audio-visual shows on the Bishop’s Palace and West Front and the festive experience will continue inside the Cathedral alongside a visit to the stunning Christmas Tree Festival. Illuminos will be using the popular carol ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’ to tell the Christmas story, introducing visitors to a kind and generous fox who gives gifts to other animals he meets along his journey to see the newborn baby Jesus.

Jan McFarlane, Interim Dean of Lichfield said: “When the team at Illuminos came to us with their concept for 2023 we were blown away. Last year they delivered a West Front teaming with singing angels, and we didn’t know how they could top that! ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’ is such a recognised and well-loved carol, so with the haunting tune and beautiful lyrics as the backdrop, they will weave in the journey of a fox to the manger. The fox represents the outsider, often greeted with suspicion but even so in this story the fox offers what he has to those animals he meets along the way. There is something profound in the Christ Child accepting the offerings of those who are treated with suspicion by others. 

We loved this concept so much that we are going to base our Christmas Eve Crib Service on it. We invite everyone to come along, this has become somewhat of a tradition for many people from all over the region and if you haven’t been along yet, do come and join in!. You are always welcome at your Cathedral.”

The Christmas Light Show runs from 17:30 on 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 & 22 December. Tickets are available on the Cathedral’s website now and are priced reasonably at £10 per adult, £7.50 per child, £30 for a family ticket, and under 3’s go FREE. Book yours right here. This link will take you directly onto their website.

The Christmas Light Show is sponsored by Richard Wintertons Auctioneers “We are delighted to sponsor Lichfield Cathedral’s Christmas Illuminations for the third year. This stunning event has become a major festive spectacle in the city, attracting people locally and from across the region to come together and celebrate the joy of this special season. We’re also pleased to once again be taking part in the Christmas Tree Festive inside the cathedral.”

Photos courtesy of Lichfield Cathedral Photographers