Celebrate the Joy of Christmas at OLV

JOY TO THE WORLD!  The Christmas season is a time when we open our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus with family, friends and other members of our faith. 

We are hopeful that, this year, you will join us at OLV National Shrine & Basilica.  In addition to the traditional Masses – both online and in-person – you are cordially invited to the following special events in honor of the Shrine’s ongoing Centennial Celebration.

Special Events

• NATIVITY SET EXHIBIT (Nov. 30 - Jan. 6) - It's back at the Basilica and in its new, permanent location. More than 100 nativity sets from around the world, part of Father Roy Herberger’s unique collection, will be on display in the lower level of the Shrine. And if you came last year - don't worry - the 2025 exhibit is all new! This wonderful Christmas tradition is a must-see. The exhibit is free and available for viewing M-F between 6:30 a.m. and 7 p.m., on Saturday between 6:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., and, on Sunday between 6:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.
   
• SACRED STORIES IN GLASS: STAINED-GLASS WINDOW EXHIBIT (Nov. 30 - Jan. 6) – Make your way to the lower level of the Shrine and get the rare opportunity to view some of the Basilica's stained-glass windows up close. Have your breath taken away by their beauty, learn about the Buffalo-based artist who created them and the local team working to restore them.  The exhibit is free and available for viewing M-F between 6:30 a.m. and 7 p.m., on Saturday between 6:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., and, on Sunday between 6:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.
   
• FESTIVAL OF LESSONS & CAROLS (Dec. 14) – For the fourth year, we will celebrate the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols in the Basilica. Join us at 7 p.m. for this FREE family-friendly evening of Scripture and song. Tickets are not required.
   
• ST. JOSEPH'S COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE'S VARSITY SINGERS (Dec. 24) - Experience the joy of the season as the Varsity Singers fill the Basilica with their extraordinary harmonies this Christmas Eve. The group members' powerful voices will lift hearts and spirits during the 6:30 p.m. Mass, creating a truly unforgettable celebration of faith and music.
   
• 100TH ANNIVERSARY MASS (Dec. 25) - The first Mass ever said at OLV National Shrine & Basilica was on Christmas Day in 1925. Join us for Midnight Mass this year, become a part of the Shrine's history and celebrate with us.  
   
• KIDS' NIGHT UNDER THE DOME (Jan. 3) - Calling all kids & families ... bring a blanket or sleeping bag and wear your comfy clothes and experience the Basilica in a whole new way.  At this event, you'll enjoy: Christmas carol sing-a-longs, kid-friendly activities like coloring crafts and a scavenger hunt, and pizza and hot cocoa. The best part? It's free! REGISTRATION INFORMATION IS COMING SOON.
   

Mass Times

CHRISTMAS EVE MASSES (Wednesday, Dec. 24):

• Vigil Masses at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
• Midnight Mass
  • Choral prelude to Midnight Mass begins at 11:30 p.m.

CHRISTMAS DAY MASSES (Thursday, Dec. 25):

• 8 a.m., 10 a.m., and noon

MASSES FOR THE SOLEMNITY OF MARY THE MOTHER OF GOD:

• Wednesday, Dec. 31 - Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m.
• Thursday, Jan. 1 - 8 a.m. and noon

Sacrament of Reconciliation

In addition to the regular times on Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. and 7-7:30 p.m., the following times for Confession are being offered:

• Wednesday, December 17, 6:30-8 p.m.
• Monday, December 22, 3-4 p.m.
• Monday, December 22, 6:30-7:30 p.m.