26.11.2021

On Sunday 5^thDecember, the Norwegian Church in Cardiff Bay will open for a day full of festive cheer in celebration of a Norwegian style Christmas.

The event, which celebrates the twinning links between Cardiff and Vestland, Norway, will be attended by The Rt. Hon. Lord Mayor of Cardiff who will officially switch on the Christmas lights as part of the tree-lighting ceremony.

Also in attendance will be the Lady Mayoress alongside Dr Tyra Oseng-Rees, Chair of the Welsh Norwegian Society,Dr Martin Price Chair of Norwegian Church Cardiff Bay, as well as representatives from the Norwegian Embassy in London and Vestland Council.

Other guests will include exchange students from Vestland and theSalvation Army band.

Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, Cllr Peter Bradbury, said: "After our virtual event last Christmas, it's uplifting to know there will once again be a Christmas tree with lights that can be celebrated outside the Norwegian Church with families and friends.

"Following recent proposals approved by Cabinet this month, this will be an extra special event for theNorwegian Church as itstarts a new chapter in its long life, protecting it for future generations."

During the day, from 11-3pm, join the workshops to make traditional Scandi paper-heart Christmas tree decorations. These workshops are ticketed on Eventbrite and cost £5 for the over 7s. Please book early as tickets are limited. See Eventbrite Details:  https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/christmas-decorations-workshop-tickets-205762941497?ref=eios

Throughout the day, enjoy festive food from the Scandinavian tradition with Norwegian specialities including freshly-made Norwegian waffles, Lapskaus (Norwegian beef stew) and gløgg (Nordic mulled wine) and hot chocolate, coffees and teas. These will be available from the Café during the day.

At 4.15pm, as darkness falls, everyone is welcome to the lantern procession and the tree-lighting ceremony which will be outside at the front of the church.

Christmas greetings will be exchanged between Vestland and Cardiff against a background of an illuminated Norwegian Church.

Chair of the Welsh Norwegian Society, Dr Tyra Oseng-Rees, said: "The festive season is back, and we are delighted to be celebrating the Festival of Friendship and Light this year and to share a little bit of a Norwegian Christmas with the people in Cardiff."

"This festive day is all about hope for the future and it is wonderful to welcome the Norwegians traveling from Vestland to join us at this event."

After the speeches, Father Christmas will be visiting to accept ‘Letters to Santa' and hand out goodie bags to the children. The event closes at 6pm.

More information on the Welsh Norwegian Society can be found here: https://www.welshnorwegian.org