All Information in this blog post is correct as of the publishing date 16/12/2020
When planning your holiday to Guernsey, it’s exciting to find out what events are happening during your visit. Whether you’re travelling during the summer or towards Christmas, there are events to delight and entertain everyone, from families to couples.
Below is a list of some of the most anticipated events and festivals taking place throughout 2021. Our guide will give you more information as to what’s on, and when, so you can plan accordingly!
APRIL 2021
Heritage Festival (Dates TBC in April and May)
One of the best times to visit Guernsey is during the annual Heritage Festival. This month-long festival celebrates Guernsey’s rich cultural heritage and has a range of activities and events taking place. From famous historical events that impacted the Island to examining the Bailiwick’s links to famous individuals such as Victor Hugo and Renoir, this festival shines a light on what makes the Islands of Guernsey so special!
MAY 2021
Liberation Day (9th May)
Hostilities will end officially at one minute after midnight tonight. And our dear Channel Islands are also to be freed today.’
It was with this announcement that years of occupation in the Bailiwick of Guernsey came to an end. Liberation Day is an annual event celebrating the freedom that the Channel Islands have enjoyed for the past 7 decades since the conclusion of World War II. Celebrations throughout the day include parades, military bands, family entertainment and a spectacular firework show over St. Peter Port to wrap up the festivities.
Seafront Sundays (23rd May – 8th Aug)
Starting in May, a series of festivals along St. Peter Port’s seafront take place where you can enjoy the al-fresco summer vibes every Sunday until August. Each week brings with it a new theme, but every Sunday allows you to enjoy the casual friendly atmosphere, live music, as well as the best food and drink Guernsey has to offer.
Spring Walking Festival (22nd May – 6th June)
Guernsey is famed for its varied walking routes and beautiful scenery. Take advantage of both throughout late May / early June with the ever-popular Spring Walking Festival. A wide range of hosted walks led by accredited guides, and suitable for beginners or seasoned ramblers, will allow you to see the historical landmarks of the island that are often missed when travelling by car.
JULY 2021
Guernsey Retro Festival
Celebrating the end of Austerity, the Guernsey Retro Festival showcases the 1950s, 60s & 70s culture featuring classic vehicles, music and outfits! With themed stalls and fancy dress, throw on your glad rags and dance the night away with all proceeds going to charity! Final dates to be confirmed.
SarkFest (9th, 10th, 11th July)
Take to the tiny Island of Sark for 3 days of live music craft stalls and catering for SarkFest 2021. With the slogan of ‘Good music. Good Food. Good People. Good Karma’, you just know you’re in for a fun weekend of festivities all set against the beautiful backdrop of La Coupée, Sark.
Sark Sheep racing
A day at the races unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before, or will ever experience again. The Sark Sheep Racing festival is one of life’s greatest joys. A fun-packed day out for the family with stalls, games and the most exciting race in the Bailiwick!
AUGUST 2021
The West Show (18th & 19th August)
Having been around for over 100 years, The Guernsey West Show is the crowd-pleasing showstopper event of the summer calendar. Starting originally as a country show with farming-related competitions, it has morphed into an entertaining day out featuring motorcycle stuns, bouncy castles and fairground rides amongst other things. Get ready for the agricultural and horticultural experience you never knew you were missing.
The North Show & Battle of Flowers (final dates TBC)
Going hand in hand like flowers and floats, the Guernsey North Show & Battle of Flowers combine a traditional country show and one of Europe’s prettiest floral festivals. With funfair and entertainment throughout the day, along with spectator judging of the floats, the event culminates in an illuminated cavalcade and spectacular firework display!
SEPTEMBER 2021
Guernsey Air Display (9th September)
For over 50 years, September has hosted the International Guernsey Air Display. 2021 marks the 80thanniversary of the Battle of Britain and as such, the skies of St. Peter Port will once again play host to someone of the most famous and iconic military aircraft including the always exciting Red Arrows. Don’t miss this adrenaline-fuelled day out!
OCTOBER 2021
Tennerfest (October – November)
The Channel Islands’ most successful and beloved fixed-price food festival Tennerfest returns to the Island once again to make sure you can sample to best of what Guernsey has to offer without having to break the bank! A huge number of participating restaurants will be offering discounted set menus with something for everyone. Prepare for the tastiest discounts available.
NOVEMBER
Christmas Lights Switch On (November 21st)
Each year, St. Peter Port’s Christmas lights will be switched on at a family-orientated event by the one and only Santa Claus! During his visit, he’ll collect letters from children and turn on the festive lights to adorn the shopping streets of Guernsey. Get in that Christmas feeling, just don’t forget the milk and cookies!
