If you’ve ever felt like Easter just sneaks up, you’re not alone. One minute it’s hot cross buns on offer, the next, everyone’s talking about Holy Week. But if you’re in or around Bradford, there’s actually a pretty special line-up of events going on that you might want to check out. Whether you’re someone who’s been to church every week for years or just a bit curious about what this whole Easter thing is really about, Bradford Cathedral is opening its doors (and livestreams) for a full week of services and events.
Let’s walk through what’s going on—and why some of it might be more relatable than you’d think.
Palm Sunday sets the scene
It all kicks off on Sunday 13th April—also known as Palm Sunday. This service at 10:30am is kind of like the opening chapter to a very dramatic story. Think: music by the Cathedral Choir, a big palm procession (yep, actual palm branches), and Holy Communion. Basically, it’s the start of Jesus’ journey through what Christians call Holy Week.
If that’s not enough, there’s a second event the same day at 3:30pm: The Cross of Christ: A Choral Meditation for Passiontide. That’s a bit of a mouthful, but imagine it as a peaceful space to just sit, listen to some beautiful music, and reflect.
Maundy Thursday: Feet washing and big emotions
On Thursday 17th April, things get more intense with the Liturgy of Maundy Thursday at 7pm. It includes something quite unexpected—feet washing. This tradition goes all the way back to Jesus washing his disciples’ feet to show love and humility. There’s also bread and wine shared, plus the option to stay afterwards and quietly reflect until midnight. The Bishop of Bradford, Rt Revd Toby Howarth, will be giving the sermon.
Let’s be real—it’s a powerful and emotional evening, whether you’re religious or not.
Good Friday goes deep
Friday’s where things get heavy. Good Friday (also on 17th April) is the day Christians remember the crucifixion of Jesus. Two events mark the day:
- 12 noon: Preaching Around the Cross – a creative session with music, poetry, and art. Think of it as a way to connect with the story using more than just words.
- 1:30pm: The Liturgy of Good Friday – a quieter, more traditional service with readings, choral music, and a symbolic moment where a cross is “buried” in St Aidan’s Chapel.
Again, Bishop Toby Howarth is preaching during the first service.
Holy Saturday: For the kids—and the kids at heart
Saturday 19th April brings something a bit lighter: Messy Easter at 3pm. It’s designed for families and kids, with crafts, games, and storytelling that brings the Holy Week journey to life. Imagine walking through scenes where you:
- Wave palms with the crowd in Jerusalem
- Sit with Jesus at his last meal
- Stand at the cross
- And peek into the empty tomb
Rev Canon Ned Lunn puts it like this:
“Come and journey through the interactive story of Holy Week… Then approach the tomb in preparation for the great climax of the story.”
And yes—there’s also the big Saturday night moment at 7pm: The Easter Liturgy. This one’s packed with symbolism—lighting a fire, reading ancient prophecies, and sharing Communion. If you’re feeling bold, you can even get baptised or renew your baptism vows. The Bishop of Leeds, Rt Revd Nick Baines, is leading this one.
Easter Sunday: From the quiet to the full celebration
Finally, Sunday 20th April brings Easter Day—the celebration of resurrection and hope. There are three services:
- 8am: Traditional Holy Communion (Book of Common Prayer style—classic and quiet)
- 10:30am: Big Choral Eucharist with livestream
- 3:30pm: Peaceful Choral Evensong
Whether you’re up at dawn or prefer an afternoon stroll into church, there’s something for every pace.
Extra stuff going on
Can’t make those services? There are still regular chances to drop in:
- Wednesday 16th April: Two Holy Communion services at 8:15am and 10:15am
- Online prayers every day (except Good Friday) at:
- 9am (Morning Prayer)
- 12noon (Midday Prayer)
- 5:30pm (Evening Prayer)
And if you’re a schoolteacher, parent or just someone who likes learning, they’ve got videos and educational resources online too.
Why it might be worth checking out
You don’t have to be religious to feel something at these events. There’s music, storytelling, stillness, and community—stuff we don’t always get enough of in everyday life. Bradford Cathedral isn’t just a building with stained glass (although that’s there too). It’s a space to pause, reflect, or just soak in a bit of peace.
As Dean Andy Bowerman puts it:
“This is the most significant week in the Christian year… from triumph to apparent disaster and back into triumph. But not the kind of triumph many would expect—the triumph of hope.”
So, maybe this year, Easter doesn’t have to just sneak by. Maybe it can actually mean something.
