Astronomers might be puzzled to spot a new constellation over Grayswood this December, as the village has transformed into a festive gallery with the return of its popular Advent Window trail. Each evening in the lead-up to Christmas, a new star-themed illuminated window is unveiled, creating a “Follow the Star” walking route through the village.

The trail, organised by Grayswood Parish Church, began in December 2020 as a way to bring the community together during a difficult year. Twenty-four houses signed up that first year, decorating their windows around the theme of Christmas Carols. Since then, the trail has featured themes such as animals, angels, and now “Follow the Star,” which aligns with the Church of England’s Advent message.

“The idea was to provide a focus for the village during Advent,” said Reverend Fiona Gwyn, vicar of Grayswood Parish. “It’s a joy to watch the windows appear, and this year we’ve seen additional displays featuring stars, which is an added bonus.”

Maps of the trail are made available so residents and visitors can explore the displays as they light up, with photos uploaded daily to the church’s website: allsaintsgrayswood.org.

“People love taking part,” said Reverend Gwyn “It’s become a Christmas and Boxing Day tradition for families to walk through the village and discover all the windows. It’s a wonderful way to bring the community together, even for those who don’t attend church.”

The Advent Window trail has become an annual tradition, with many families enjoying walks on Christmas Day and Boxing Day to admire the displays. After a brief pause last year, when the village held a Christmas poem competition instead, the return of the trail has been warmly welcomed.