A much-loved festive tradition for tens of thousands of families, Light Before Christmas makes its magical return to Liverpool Cathedral from 28 November to 6 December, and this year’s event will shine even brighter thanks to a special new addition.
Visitors will be welcomed by festive artwork created by pupils from more than 30 schools across the Liverpool City Region and Diocese, showcased at the entrance to the light show as part of a city-wide art project initiated by the Cathedral.
This creative collaboration invites children to interpret this year’s theme, The Gift, whether that’s a Christmas present, the joy of giving, or the simple gift of time spent with family and friends. Their colourful artworks will adorn the Gilbert Scott Suite, setting the tone for an evening of warmth, wonder and festive spirit before guests embark on an awe-inspiring journey of mesmerising light projections and immersive soundscapes that transform the Cathedral into a radiant winter spectacle.
Through its school outreach programme, Liverpool Cathedral plans to display 33 pieces of artwork throughout the nine-day show. Pupils from schools including Garston CE Primary, Trinity St Peter’s CE Primary, Barlows Primary School, St Sebastian Catholic School and St Patrick’s Catholic Primary, among others, will have the chance to see their creations proudly exhibited in situ, and experience the magic of Light Before Christmas, which is expected to attract around 30,000 visitors.
Created by the world-renowned Luxmuralis team, this year’s theme explores the gift of peace, the gift of Christmas, and the idea that the Cathedral itself was a gift to the city, built by the very people it continues to serve.
Extending the celebration beyond the Cathedral walls, a city-wide treasure hunt will also take place throughout the event period. Participants are invited to seek out hidden gifts across some of Liverpool’s most iconic locations, with clues shared on Liverpool Cathedral’s social media channels and prizes including vouchers and tickets to Light Before Christmas.
Yvonne Pearson, Education Officer at Liverpool Cathedral, said:
“I am delighted to welcome students from across the city to showcase their artwork in one of Liverpool’s most iconic buildings. Teachers have already told us that many of the pupils are excited by the thought of so many people seeing their work on display. Light Before Christmas has become a firm favourite in Liverpool’s Christmas calendar, and by introducing this new element, we hope to inspire school children each year to take part and see their work proudly displayed in the Cathedral.”
Don’t miss your chance to make Light Before Christmas part of your festive schedule this year – join Liverpool Cathedral in bringing the holiday magic to the city and sharing the gift of peace and joy this Christmas.
Tickets are going fast, so booking early is advised to avoid disappointment. For more information and to book your tickets, click here.
Featured image credit: ©Gareth Jones
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