Follow the Stars - Macmillan Carols
About this event
Tickets are now on sale – Follow the Stars 2025!
Join us for a magical evening of music and readings at the 29th annual Follow the Stars Macmillan Carol Concert, taking place on Friday 5 December at 8pm in the magnificent Christ Church Cathedral, right in the heart of Oxford.
The beloved festive tradition brings together world-class talent for an unforgettable celebration to make the start of the Christmas season. We are thrilled to welcome an outstanding line-up including Abigail Thaw, Sally Phillips, Ben Bailey Smith, Angela Rippon, and Demi Jones.
We are especially honoured to be joined by Sophie Bevan MBE, one of the leading lyric sopranos of her generation. Having received her own cancer treatment a few years ago, Sophie’s participation adds a deeply personal connection to this important fundraising event.
The evening’s music will be performed by Oxford’s premier vocal ensemble, the Oxford Bach Soloists, conducted by Steven Grahl, Director of Music at Trinity College, Cambridge.
Come and celebrate with us as we herald the arrival of Christmas in spectacular style — and support a cause that touches millions of lives.
Today, almost 3.5 million people in the UK are living with cancer, and Macmillan Cancer Support is there for them every step of the way.
Book your tickets today by visiting the Tickets Oxford website or calling the Tickets Oxford Box Office on 01865 305305 (Monday–Saturday, 12pm–6pm).
Can’t be there in person?
You can still be part of the magic! The concert will be livestreamed on our JustGiving page. Don’t forget to ‘Add to Calendar’
📅 Add to Google Calendar
Your impact
Since the inaugural concert in 1996, we have raised £913,151 for Macmillan through ticket sales and the generous support of the event’s sponsors – 100% of everything we raise goes directly to improve the outcome and survival rates of those living with cancer. This year, with your help, we are aiming to raise £80,000.
2025 Line up
Abigail Thaw
Angela Rippon
Ben Bailey Smith
Sally Phillips
Sophie Bevan
Our 2024 event
Last year, we raised over £72,000 to support Macmillan's vital work. This could fund a Macmillan nurse for over 1 year, helping people living with cancer and their families receive essential medical, practical and emotional support.
Take a look at last year’s concert.
In 2024 we were joined by the wonderful Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Shaun Evans, Jason Isaacs, Toheeb Jimoh and Toby Jones for a selection of festive readings.
Watch the 2024 Follow the Stars – Macmillan Carol Concert livestream.
Why your support is so important
Macmillan provides services to support people living with cancer at every stage of their cancer experience. We aim to support people’s individual needs, helping them find the best way through from the moment they are diagnosed, through treatment and beyond. Macmillan rely on donations from people like you for 98% of their income.
Over the last 28 years, Follow the Stars – Macmillan Carols has raised more than £912,000 and none of this would be possible without the support of people buying tickets, sponsorship, or donations in advance.
Sponsorship and advertising
There are a number of ways for businesses and professionals to support this event while receiving exposure to Macmillan’s supporter base. Please email followthestars@macmillan.org.uk to find out more.