| Where: | Alcester, Warwickshire- Parade on High Street, Fireworks on Stratford Road |
| When: | December 6th |
| Time: | From 5pm with Parade 5.30, Fireworks 8.45 pm |
The church at Alcester is dedicated to St Nicholas and his feast day is celebrated each December with great enthusiasm throughout the little historic town in a festive community get-together. The evening involves a parade featuring a Child Bishop, as St Nicholas is Patron Saint of Children, and is associated with the topsy-turvy role swapping winter custom whereby a child takes over the senior prelate’s job for a while (most other Boy, Child or Chorister Bishops are associated with church services – see articles on Ripon, Hereford, St Blazey and Salisbury for more information). The Child Bishop takes centre stage in the short service at the church after they have switched on the Christmas lights on the tree outside the entrance and on the tower, and a special Alcester version of Away in a Manger is sung with words adapted for St Nicholas Night. The Bishop’s attendants role involves readings and prayers, and aspersing the congregation at the close of the service. There are also a plethora of fund-raising stalls in the High Street, Santa’s Grotto, musicians and Morris dancers, and a professional firework display. Something for everyone!
Helpful Hints
It’s always held on 6th regardless of what day of the week it falls upon.
The parade normally begins at the far end of the High Street and makes its way up to the Church. In 2024 the adverse weather forecast has led to a last-minute move from the High Street to the Greig Hall. The church events will still take place as planned, but the Fireworks have been cancelled. Check the links below for updates and revised timings, as these may be subject to change at short notice.
Free parking is available in town; the High Street is closed to traffic for the event. The event is free of charge but donations are welcome as it’s a charity fundraiser for local good causes.
Click here for the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/StNicsNight
and here: https://whatsonalcester.co.uk
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