This year’s Christmas at the Cathedral takes audiences deeper into the spirit of Christmas than ever before, expanding the footprint of the experience, illuminating new spaces and creating a true Christmas spectacle for families.
Now in its fourth year partnering with the Archdiocese of Sydney, Electric Canvas, the company behind the lights shows and designs, is scaling up for 2025.
“This year we’ve added more projection to the Christmas at the Cathedral event, not only the summit façade, which is where the Little Drummer Boy will be featured, but last year for the first time, we projected onto the western entrance on the College Street side. And this year we’ve expanded that. We’ve doubled the size of that projection,” revealed managing director Peter Milne.
But for Milne, the experience isn’t just about the façade. It’s about drawing people into the heart of Sydney’s mother church.
“This year, again, we’re lighting the Great North window, which will be seen from the inside of the Cathedral, because part of Christmas at the Cathedral is enticing people to come into the Cathedral and experience that,” he said.
And for the first time, the crypt becomes part of the story.
“This year for the first time, we’re also doing some decorative projection, themed decorative projection in the crypt below the cathedral. It’s a very special place. Not everybody knows about it, but it will hopefully increase the number of people that want to explore not only the cathedral itself, but the crypt below.”
For the last four years, Ian Steigrad, director of The Epic Team has overseen the end-to-end event management of Christmas at the Cathedral.
“Events of this scale require dozens of moving parts. Our job is to hold everything together so the wider team — including the Sydney Archdiocese, the Cathedral, Electric Canvas and all specialist suppliers — can seamlessly bring their elements to life,” said Steigrad.
On site, the work is intensive and precise: “there’s team of six to eight technicians, and we set up over a series of three or four days, including long nighttime sessions, aligning all the projections. Our goal every year is to ensure the event feels calm, magical, and safe,” he added.
But large-scale events like Christmas at the Cathedral are not possible without broader community support, with the archdiocese counting on major sponsors, such as the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) to deliver this gift for Sydney.
“Christmas at the Cathedral feels like a gift to the city – a moment where everyone can come together and feel welcome,” said CBA’s executive general manager for major client group, Chris Williams.
“That sense of connection is why we support events like this all year round. Keeping it accessible matters because it reflects what we stand for: community, generosity, and inclusion,” said Williams.
As Australians everywhere feel the pinch of the rising costs of living, Australia’s largest bank, the CBA, believes Christmas at the Cathedral gives everyone a chance to enjoy something magical.
“It’s a simple way to make the season brighter for all. Supporting inclusive events like this matters because it helps create joy and connection when people need it most,” added Williams.
“Beyond this event, we’re committed to practical support – from financial assistance and budgeting tools to discounts and offers through the CommBank app – helping Australians navigate uncertain times and look forward to a brighter future.”
Making a positive impact in our communities has always been important to the CBA, not just over Christmas, but throughout the year.
“We support grassroots organisations, deliver financial education, and help Australians stay safe from scams. Together these efforts build confidence and create lasting change – because strong, inclusive communities are the foundation of a thriving nation. Christmas at the Cathedral is one way we bring that purpose to life, making a difference not just during the festive season but all year round,” Williams added.
He shares a final message with the many Australians preparing to experience Christmas at the Cathedral between 17 – 25 December.
“As you walk through the lights and music of Christmas at the Cathedral, take a moment to reflect on the values of generosity, hope, and togetherness. We’re proud to help make experiences like this accessible to everyone. From all of us at CommBank, we wish you a festive season filled with joy, peace, and confidence for the year ahead.”