Berkhamsted Festival of Light
Every year, St Peter’s Church celebrates with the entire town community in the Berkhamsted Festival of Light. It’s not Christmas just yet, but from Advent Sunday, we look ahead to the holy and festive season by lighting candles, a symbol of “light in the darkness” – and for the church, this is the light of Christ.
The 2026 Festival of Light will take place on Sunday 22 November
Volunteers wanted!
Will you help St Peter’s this year? We get lots of helpers to share the work, and if you’ve never helped before, we encourage you to come and help! Young people are especially welcome! Please sign up using the button below:
See St Peter's by candlelight
During the town street party, St Peter’s Church is open to visitors. Everyone is welcome to come in and see the historic church lit by thousands of candles.
Come in to walk around, take photos, pause for a moment of reflection and prayer, or just enjoy this calm, sacred space.
Donations welcome
Entrance to St Peter’s is totally free! However, we do welcome donations – we urgently need to raise money for our Renovation Appeal. Our roof is leaking, and rainwater is damaging this historic landmark.
Look out for the contactless card readers and red collecting buckets in the church. Your gift, however small, will help us to save Berkhamsted’s historic parish church for future generations.
Mulled wine on sale
We’ll be selling hot, heartwarming Glühwein (mulled wine) in souvenir mugs – there’s a different one to collect each year, so get your memento of Berkhamsted Festival of Light!
A festival for the whole community
This is a festival for the whole community. Bekhamsted’s High Street is filled with live entertainments, food and drink stalls and fairground rides, and the Elves’ Posting House is open for children’s Christmas wishes. Don’t miss Santa’s parade and the official switch-on of the lights!
