Sankta Lucia – A Festival of Light returns to York Minster

Monday 15 December 2025, 7pm

The glow of candlelight will once again fill York Minster this December as we gather for one of the city’s most atmospheric traditions — Sankta Lucia, A Festival of Light.

Each winter, as the nights grow longer, this much-loved Scandinavian celebration brings together light, hope and togetherness in the heart of York. Now in its twelfth year at the Minster, the service has become a highlight of the festive season for many — a chance to pause, reflect and be uplifted by song.

Photo: Charlotte Graham

This year we’re delighted to welcome back the London Nordic Choir, whose hauntingly beautiful a cappella harmonies will lead Lucia and her candlelit procession through the Minster’s magnificent Nave.

The choir, directed by Carina Einarson, has performed at York Minster several times and always describes it as one of their most memorable venues:

“We love singing in the awe-inspiring Minster — the acoustics, the candlelight, and the spirit of Christmas in York are unforgettable.”

A partnership bringing light to thousands

YASS has organised Sankta Lucia services for our members since the late 1970s, first in smaller local venues and, since 2013, in partnership with York Minster. This collaboration has allowed us to share the Lucia tradition with more than a thousand people each year — and many more who join online from near and far.

It’s more than a service; it’s an experience that captures the spirit of Scandinavian Christmas — voices in harmony, the soft flicker of candles, and the feeling of warmth that comes from being together in midwinter.

As Pernilla Tweddle, Chair of the Lucia Planning Group, puts it:

“Sankta Lucia captures something truly special — it brings warmth, light, and a sense of connection to everyone who takes part. Each year we’re moved by how it unites people, Scandinavian or not, in shared joy and reflection at such a magical time of year.”

We often hear from those who attend just how much the evening means to them:

“It truly is the event I look most forward to and never ceases to please. I don’t really have the words for the peace and beauty I felt when the choir sang tonight — it buoys me up all year.”

Event details

Sankta Lucia – A Festival of Light

Monday 15 December 2025, 7pm

York Minster Doors open at 6.15pm

Admission is free and the service lasts around one hour. A retiring collection will be held in support of York Minster and YASS.

If you can’t be there in person, the service will also be livestreamed via York Minster’s YouTube channel — links will be shared closer to the date.