The President of Tynwald, Laurence Skelly MLC, has issued an open invitation to the public and local businesses to participate in the annual Tynwald Christmas Carol Service. Scheduled for 1:10 PM on December 11, 2023, the event will be held at St George’s Church, located on Upper Church Street in Douglas. This beloved holiday tradition promises a delightful program of choral music that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
Attendees can look forward to performances by the Tynwald Choir, the Isle of Man Arts Council Community Choir, and a brass ensemble. The Clerk of Tynwald has meticulously arranged the Order of Service, blending popular holiday classics with lesser-known festive pieces. The service is expected to conclude around 2:00 PM, after which guests are invited to enjoy refreshments, including tea, coffee, and traditional mince pies. A retiring collection will also be taken to support local charities.
President Skelly expressed his heartfelt thanks to The Venerable Irene Cowell and the St George’s team for their gracious hospitality in hosting this year’s service. The community is encouraged to join together for an uplifting start to the festive season.
On December 15, 2023, the celebrations will continue with the much-anticipated Mince Pie and Tynwald Tour. This event will be led by Sarah Maltby MHK and her father, former MHK and MLC David Cretney. Participants are invited to gather at the Finch Road entrance of the iconic Tynwald building, known locally as the “Wedding Cake,” at 6:00 PM. The guided tour will commence promptly at 6:30 PM, offering a unique glimpse into the island’s parliamentary history, as Tynwald boasts over a millennium of tradition, making it the oldest continuous parliament in the world.
In keeping with the festive spirit, families can enjoy complimentary seasonal treats, hot beverages, and fruit juice for younger attendees once the tour concludes. Organizers stress that children must be accompanied by an adult to ensure safety throughout the event. Guests are encouraged to bring cameras, as the evening will provide numerous opportunities for festive photography inside and outside the beautifully decorated buildings.
For those with mobility requirements, advance communication is encouraged to ensure appropriate arrangements are made for accessibility. To assist with catering, organizers request that visitors confirm their expected attendance as soon as possible. Interested parties can reach out for further information at [email protected] or [email protected].
These Christmas events at Tynwald offer a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the season, fostering a sense of warmth and connection among residents and visitors alike.
