York Register Office conducts naming ceremonies to celebrate the arrival of a new baby into your family. Ceremonies can also be used to welcome adoptive children and step-children into a new relationship.

Contact us to arrange a naming ceremony or for more information.

Who can arrange a naming ceremony?

Any parent can arrange a naming ceremony, whether married or not, regardless of spiritual or religious beliefs or cultural background.

What is the ceremony like?

Specially written ceremonies are available containing choices to make your naming ceremony unique and with special meaning to your family.

You will be able to choose promises to the child and promises to your partner. You may also choose from a selection of poems and readings and can present your child with a special gift to mark the occasion.

A souvenir record of the ceremony will be presented during the event.

Where and when does the ceremony take place?

Ceremonies take place at the York Register Office, in the marriage room. The garden is also available for pictures after the ceremony.

You can also use any of the approved premises for the ceremony.

Sunday is the only day being offered at the moment. Every hour, on the hour, are the most popular times.

How much does it cost?

• £160.00 at the Register Office
• £185.00 at approved premises

Make cheques or postal orders payable to 'City of York Council'.

Are there any legal implications?

Neither the ceremony nor any document issued following the ceremony has any legal status.

You may change a child's name only if you have parental responsibility for the child and you should normally have the agreement of the child's other parent.

You may not use the ceremony to change a child's name unless you have the authority to do so.

Contact us for full legal details.