What is Norwich Open Christmas?

Norwich Open Christmas is an event that runs from 11AM to 5PM on Christmas Day in St.Andrews Hall in Norwich, Norfolk, England.

2010 will be the 19th year that the Open Christmas volunteer team will provide a roof, a hot meal, entertainment and a warm welcome for those who are on their own or homeless in the Norwich area.

Over 300 guests come from all over Norwich and the surrounding area and from all walks of life.
Some are homeless or on the streets, some just dread being alone on Christmas Day following a bereavement, a marriage breakup or some other traumatic happening in their life, some can not visit relations for Christmas as they live far away, some are unwanted by their family, some find that their usual support services are closed, some are elderly, some are young, some think of ending it all and thankfully seek the company of others before it is too late.

Whatever the reason, they are welcomed.

Meals and transport are provided free of charge, guests are welcome to stay all day or come and go as they please. no booking is required.

Who runs Open Christmas?

There is a growing team of committed volunteers who help at Open Christmas every year with food preparation, hall decoration, transport, entertainment, greeting guests and the many other tasks which need doing. Some have been with us since the first event. Significantly, some of our volunteers have been needy guests in the past and return to help as a thank you. Other people contact us during the early autumn to offer their services and swell the volunteer team to over 60 people.

Who supports us?

The Lord Mayor or Sheriff usually visits on Christmas Day to give an official civic welcome to our guests as St. Andrew's Hall is provided free of charge by the council

Several ministers of religion pop in to greet our guests and to make themselves available to our guests if required.

Donations of food, clothing, equipment, decorations and money come from individuals, church groups, local companies, schools, the City College and retailers.

What happens?

Entertainment can include carol singing, an organ recital, a quiz, bingo, country dancing, folk singers and solo artists.

Some volunteers welcome the guests, others host tables, fetch mugs of coffee or tea as required and enable conversations and friendships to start.

And that is what Open Christmas is really all about

Providing a welcome, company and friendship for those who would otherwise spend a lonely and miserable Christmas Day on their own in the City of Norwich.