Liverpool Cathedral return for The Light Before Christmas

Luxmuralis has returned to Liverpool Cathedral to present another magical Christmas light show for the festive season.

The Light Before Christmas: The Manger is at the Grade I listed landmark after dark from today until December 8.

Visitors can expect a large-scale Son et Lumiere with lights and sound filling the interior of the cathedral and on its front elevation. Illuminations guide people to follow the story, while encouraging both young and old to enjoy the architectural splendour of the sandstone building.

They include nativity scenes and exquisite stained glass effects, but also celebrations of Charles Dickens' favourite A Christmas Carol and other Christmas-related images along with a festive soundtrack.

Luxmuralis artistic director Peter Walker said: “We’re delighted to return to Liverpool and present our second Christmas installation in the stunning cathedral. Liverpool has embraced these light shows with tens of thousands visiting previous work.

“It’s beginning to feel like a tradition for the city to visit the Cathedral in the festive period and for family and friends to visit the Christmas illuminations as part of the start of the holidays.”

The Very Rev Dr Sue Jones, Dean of the cathedral, said: “Peter knows the building, he works with the building and he understands Liverpool in a way that a lot of other people wouldn't. He breathes the place."

Above and top: IA selection of images from The Light Before Christmas: The Manger at Liverpool Cathedral

Next year marks 100 years since the building's consecration, and Dr Jones also revealed there had already been a discussion about next Christmas and "doing something pertinent to the centenary" as part of a wider programme of artistic installations designed celebrate the anniversary.

The Light Before Christmas: The Manger runs on a loop from 4.30pm to 8.30pm (7.30pm Monday to Wednesday) and costs £9.90 for adults and £7.70 for children aged from three to 16. Entry for children under THREE is free when accompanied by an adult but you must book a ticket. Family tickets (2 adults and 3 children) are £28.60.

This year there will also be two sensory shows, where sound will be reduced and each show lasts just 15 minutes.

The Light Before Christmas: The Manger is at Liverpool Cathedral until December 8. Tickets must be booked in advance. More details and booking HERE