The service was first broadcast in 1928 and, with the exception of 1930, has been broadcast annually, even during the Second World War, when the ancient glass (and also all heat) had been removed from the Chapel. Sometime in the early 1930's the BBC began broadcasting the service on the World Service. It is estimated that there are millions of listeners worldwide, including those to Radio Four in the United Kingdom. In recent years it has become the practice to broadcast a digital recording on Christmas Day on Radio Three, and since 1963, a shorter service, which uses different music and readings, has been filmed periodically for television.

The event is primarily intended for the City of Cambridge and members of the general public. Apart from those reserved for members of the College and their guests, seats are kept for those who are prepared to queue however, as a result of the increasing popularity of this service, the demand for seats always outstrips the number available. Normally, anyone joining the queue before 9.00am will gain admission, but it is not guaranteed that this will be so.
The queue is admitted at 1.30pm and the service, which is broadcast live on BBC Radio 4, begins at 3.00pm. It concludes at around 4.30pm.
Please note that this service is not suitable for young children.