Sydney’s iconic mother church takes on a magical dimension with the annual Christmas at the Cathedral between 12-25 December; an extraordinary event that has become the premier free family Christmas celebration in Sydney.
Each year, the iconic St Mary’s Cathedral transforms into an immersive technological wonderland, this year with the theme of “A Christmas Carol.”
Visitors will be enchanted with a stunning display of light and sound as 30 million pixels animate Charles Dickens’ classic tale onto its magnificent facade.
But behind the marvels of its technical beauty, is the real spirit of giving and community.
A vital partner in bringing Christmas at the Cathedral to life is the Payce Foundation, which has collaborated with the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney for many years.
“Christmas at the Cathedral is now one of Sydney’s most popular holiday traditions, allowing people young and old to witness and share the joy of Christmas,” said Dominic Sullivan, Payce Foundation Director.
“It’s a favourite Sydney event, free and accessible that welcomes individuals and families, locals and visitors alike,” he said.
This long-standing partnership exemplifies a shared commitment to charity and goodwill and their sponsorship of Sydney’s best free family event underscores this commitment.
“The PAYCE Foundation believes Christmas is a time to think about others and to give back. A time to focus on compassion and community,” Dominic added.
“Christmas is also a time for joy and hope, and a season to look forward to and celebrate with loved ones.”
Beyond the visual splendour, the event fosters a sense of unity within the community. Dominic says that by supporting Christmas at the Cathedral, Payce Foundation aims to provide a memorable experience that is accessible to all.
“Unfortunately, the cost-of-living challenges are harder around Christmas time, and as many families struggle the PAYCE Foundation is proud to sponsor an amazing and free community event. Each year hundreds of thousands of Sydneysiders have come to appreciate this spectacular light show and share in the Christmas season,” he says.
As families, locals, and visitors gather to witness the dazzling beauty of the cathedral, they are also reminded of the importance of togetherness during this festive time.
One of the beneficiaries of this spirt of compassion and community is charity partner, Cana Communities, a not-for-profit charity working with men, and women who have experienced homelessness, addiction, mental health issues.
“Christmas is a special time of year when many across the community look to support organisations such as Cana Communities,” said David Ballhausen, CEO of Cana Communities.
“This generous support extends beyond the festive season, ensuring we can continue to provide essential care, safe spaces, and opportunities for rebuilding lives,” he said.
David states that Cana’s partnership with Christmas at the Cathedral will assist with two important initiatives underway in 2025.
“One initiative is the opening of a new house in Darlinghurst to support a family of asylum seekers living in our community on bridging visas while their claim for protection is being assessed,” said David.
“The second initiative is the transition of our farm and social enterprise operations from Orchard Hill in western Sydney, due to its sale, to a new location at Grose Vale in the Hawkesbury region,” he said.
Cana Communities hopes the event serves as a reminder that kindness, togetherness, and generosity are the true gifts of the season
“Men and women often come to us with a history of serious trauma and neglect. They have never been supported to understand the recurring impact it has had on their lives—the cycles of failure, conflict, violence, addiction, crime, imprisonment, and physical and mental illness.
“At Cana, we offer more than just accommodation. We offer the opportunity for them to see their worth and to hope for a better future,” said David.
This holiday season, as the cathedral dazzles with its brilliant light show, visitors are invited to reflect on the blessings of kindness and the spirit of giving, making Christmas at the Cathedral an unforgettable experience that resonates far beyond the holiday itself.
For more information follow the link here.