> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Community invited to be part of historic Ipswich Minster countdown
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/community-invited-to-be-part-of-historic-ipswich-minster-countdown/
- Published: 2024-11-29T14:29:09.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:28:57.000Z
- Description: Schools, businesses and community groups are coming together to create a spectacular Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary-le-Tower Church, as it prepares for its historic designation as Ipswich Minster.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Faith & Religion, Events & Things To Do, #article, Ipswich Minster, #Import 2026-03-16 14:46

**Why it matters**: The festival marks the beginning of celebrations leading up to a significant moment in the town centre church's history on 19 January 2025, when it becomes Ipswich Minster.

**The big picture**: More than 100 Christmas trees will fill the church from 29 November to 8 December, each decorated by different members of the local community to tell unique stories of hope and joy.

![St Mary-le-Tower Church](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1732890448-st-mary-le-tower-church-jpeg-3.jpg)

More than 100 Christmas trees will fill St Mary-le-Tower Church (St Mary-le-Tower Church)

**What's happening**:

- Live music performances from local choirs and musicians
- Seasonal refreshments available
- Children's activity corner
- Craft fair featuring local gifts
- Proceeds support the church's community programmes

Reverend Tom Mumford, Vicar of St Mary-le-Tower, said: "This year's Christmas Tree Festival is particularly special as we prepare for the church's designation as Ipswich Minster. It's an opportunity to come together as a community, celebrate the season, and reflect on the church's growing role as a spiritual and cultural beacon for the town."

![Two police officers show off their Christmas tree](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1732894306-police-christmas-tree-edited.png)

PC Butler and PCSO Pennock attended St Mary Le Tower Church and set up the Ipswich Police Christmas tree (Suffolk Constabulary)

**What's next**: The Church of England will officially designate St Mary-le-Tower as Ipswich Minster in January, recognising its importance and contribution to the local community.

**Bottom line**: The Christmas Tree Festival offers local residents a chance to be part of a historic moment for Ipswich, while celebrating the festive season as a community.

### Independent local journalism is expensive to produce

It's free for you to read thanks to the generous support of our partners.