Now is a wonderful time to visit Guernsey. The temperature is starting to get warmer and the days are starting to get longer, allowing you more time to fit in all of the exciting events we have on offer.
If you are looking for things to do on your trip to the Islands of Guernsey this winter, you will be treated to events across the island celebrating the outdoors, local food and seasonal treats.
February
1st February - 28th February: Val De Terres Everest Challenge 2023
The Val De Terres Everest Challenge is a walking event taking participants around the Val de Terres, George Road, and Havelet circuit, just outside of the main Saint Peter Port town. Each lap is 1.6 km long and has 77 m elevation and, with a total of 115 laps, it is the equivalent total height of Mount Everest (8848M). The challenge was set to run for 30 days, commencing on 1st January, however, you are welcome to begin at any point as long as the challenge is completed by the end of February. Entrants can complete the challenge on their own, or as part of a team, dividing the overall laps between them. Funds raised will go towards local charity, Smile for Georgie, who will also be making a donation to Diabetes Guernsey.
3rd February: Flexagon Live, w/ Its Own Animal & Finley Gomez
Flexagon is returning to St James to celebrate the launch of his new album and kick off Independent Venue Week 2023 with a special night of electronic music. Flexagon will be joined on stage by special guests, so expect a wide range of music, from epic electronic ambient excursions to dance tracks, all accompanied by immersive visuals. Flexagon’s new Guernsey-based album ‘The Towers I: Inaccessible’ will be released on the same day of as event. All ages are welcome, but please note that under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.
4th February: Buffalo Huddleston & The Honest Crooks
Two legends of the local music scene come together for one night only to celebrate Independent Venue Week in style. Buffalo Huddleston are taking to the stage with Guernsey's feel-good ska band The Honest Crooks for over 4 hours of non-stop music. All ages welcome, under 14s to be accompanied by an adult
9th February: Comedy at St James: Hal Cruttenden
Hal is one of the top touring stand-up comedians working in the UK and Ireland today, as well as being a highly accomplished writer, presenter and actor, and St James is in the schedule for his current tour ‘It’s Best You Hear it From Me’. The bar opens at 7pm, so why not come in early and have a drink before the show. Might not be suitable for a younger audience. Adult themes and strong language likely.
10th February: Jackson Mathod
Jackson Mathod is a multi-instrumentalist and singer. Having collaborated with various musicians and producers, he has created a vast catalogue of music for someone his age. All ages welcome, under 14s to be accompanied by an adult.
11th February: Friends of Guernsey Music Centre present an evening of jazz and popular classics
The Friends of Guernsey Music Centre presents an evening of jazz and popular classics performed by the Training Jazz Orchestra, directed by Katie Gough, and the Youth Jazz Orchestra, directed by Liz Green. Ticket price includes a light supper.
11th and 25th February: Castel Farmer’s Market
Explore local produce at the Friquet Garden Centre in Castel. Here you can meet local food producers and makers and pick up a tasty Guernsey treat. There will be a wide array of stalls including fresh vegetables, meat and fish, baked goods and more.
13th February - 31st December: Timewarp 2023: A Picnic with Renoir
Explore the Guernsey Museum at Candie for Timewarp, a room dedicated to educating children about the history of our Islands through dressing up and games, with plenty to interest adults as well. The theme changes each January and this year's theme was inspired by French artist, Renoir, who arrived in Guernsey September 1883 and stayed for a little over a month. Renoir loved spending time at Moulin Huet and painted about 15 views of the area, including the cottage near the beach, which still stands today. This little house has been the inspiration for the 2023 Timewarp. Whilst it is not confired if Renoir ever visited the cottage, we know Victor Hugo spent time there in 1859 and 1870. There's lots of dressing up to enjoy, and many of the costumes and props have been handmade by museum staff and volunteers. Put on an artist smock with beret, a Victorian summer dress or even a pastry chef outfit, play and learn.
15th February: The Fanny Davies International Piano Series presents Leon McCawley
Leon McCawley, who has appeared at venues such as London’s Wigmore Hall and New York’s Lincoln Center, will be performing for The Fanny Davies International Piano Series at St James this February. There will be a workshop at 4pm, in which McCawley will work with talented local piano students, although anyone is welcome to attend and watch with no tickets required. His evening performance programme will showcase incredible talent, with everything from the sonatas of Haydn and Beethoven to the Nocturnes of Chopin and Brahms’ Rhapsodies being performed.
18th - 19th February: Great Gatsby Casino Night
Step back in time to the 1920’s and put on your most elegant clothes with the Great Gatsby casino night at The White House Hotel on Herm. It’s sure to be a glamorous evening full of thrills, with five casino tables to try your luck at. All guests will receive 10 casino chips to get started. There will also be live entertainment from local singer, Lydia Jane Pugh, and cocktails, canapés and a hot buffet will be served in The Conservatory Restaurant. The package also includes an overnight stay at The White House Hotel for two, return Isle of Herm ferry tickets, £10 Herm Shop gift voucher and a full English breakfast served prior to departure. Book online or contact the reservations team for all enquiries.
20th - 25th February: Half Term Activities at Guille-Allès Library
Every half term the Guille-Alles Public Library in Guernsey organises events for children of all ages. Whether you need something to entertain the kids or want to spend some quality time together, all events are free to attend (although some events have limited space and may require you to book a free ticket).
This half term’s theme is nature, inspired by this year's WriteStuff Competition, a writing contest for students in the Islands of Guernsey. You'll find activities for all ages - from sensory play, story times and signing classes, to book club discussions and craft classes. Find the full itinerary here.
Additionally, all week you can have a go at the Fairtrade Fortnight ‘spot it’ trail that is happening around the Children’s Library, with the chance to win a sticker if you manage to find them all.
23rd February: The Kooky Tea Club
Open to all, this vintage style high tea has treats prepared by local chef James Ferguson, as well as cocktails and mocktails served on arrival. Tables are available for groups of 2 - 10. This is guaranteed to be an exciting evening of delicious food with a mystery guest speaker.
24th February: SOUND Night
A great event for younger visitors to our Islands - Guernsey's only under 18 live music night is taking place at St James, with music for under 18s, by under 18s. The line up includes local bands ’Truelove & The Rejects, ‘Bonnie & The Others’ and many more up-and-coming bands. This is the perfect night for young people to come along, listen to some live music and enjoy half term. Ages 11-18 only - no parents allowed!
25th February: Robert J Hunter & Band
Alderney born performer Robert J Hunter is returning to St James, this time accompanied by his full band, for an unmissable evening of Blues and Americana. There will be cabaret style seating available, plus standing room. All ages are welcome, but please note that under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.
March
1st March - 15th April: The Market Building’s 200th Anniversary Exhibition
The Guernsey Market Buildings are celebrating 200 years. In the George Crossan Gallery, inside the inner market street, you will find a timeline of images, archival footage, and artwork dating back from the 1800s. The exhibition is free to visit and is open Monday - Saturday every week.
3rd March - 23rd April: Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition
A display of photos from The Natural History Museum’s popular Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, the most prestigious event of its kind, is coming to the Guernsey Museum at Candie Gardens. The exhibition will have a range of photographs highlighting the diversity and fragility of wildlife on a worldwide scale.
4th March: Guernsey Symphonic Winds - Children’s Movie Matinee
Join the local Symphonic Winds for a performance of classic children’s movie tunes at St James’ in St Peter Port. A celebration of cinema’s best-known melodies, this is a great activity for families to enjoy, with songs from Encanto, The Wizard of Oz, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Pirates of The Caribbean, Frozen and more. Children are encouraged to dress up as their favourite Disney character or super ero to add to the magic.
4th March: Cheesy Music Night at KGV
An evening of all the songs you love to hate and your guilty pleasures at the KGV Sports Bar in Castel, with local DJs Party On.
5th and 26th March: Guernsey Triathlon Club Duathlon Series
Run, swim and then run again with the Guernsey Triathlon Club's duathlon series. Perfect for those new to triathlons, or for those wanting a more relaxed environment. Visitors are welcome to join this friendly group, just sign up online! Join the club at Rocquaine Bay on the West Coast on the 5th March and Pembroke Beach in the North on the 26th.
8th March: International Women's Day at St James
Celebrate local female artists this International Women's day at St James. Featuring music from Rachel Dawson, Emily Fern, Eloise Fabbri, Kiya Ashton, Hollie Lucia and The Ukuladeez alongside artwork from Tiffany Anna, Tyler Ayres, Sian Jones, Lupin Vivian, Joni Elizabeth and Teresa Stoakes.
10th March: Myele Manzanza
Myele Manzanza is one of the most exciting jazz musicians of the moment, and has sold out some of London's top venues, such as The Jazz Cafe and Ronnie Scott's. He'll be performing at St James with support from Twelve Tribe Mansion. There will be cabaret style seating for the event. All ages are welcome, but please note that under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.
11th and 25th March: Castel Farmer’s Market
Explore local produce at the Friquet Garden Centre in Castel. Here you can meet local food producers and makers and pick up a tasty Guernsey treat. There will be a wide array of stalls including fresh vegetables, meat and fish, baked goods and more.
11th March: Republica and Not Another Indie Disco at St James
Join in for a night of music including performances from Republica, chart toppers of the 90s with songs like 'Ready to Go' and 'Drop Dead Gorgeous' and a DJ set from 'Not Another Indie Disco'. All ages welcome, with under 14s to be accompanied by an adult.
16th March: Bailiwick Folk and Roots Night with Hannah Sanders & Ben Savage
Head out for a night of entertainment from Bailiwick Folk & Roots (the team who organise the popular annual Sark Folk Festival) in the Café at St James. Since emerging in 2016, critically acclaimed Hannah Sanders and Ben Savage have been defying all conventions of style, genre and compartmentalisation. Supporting Hannah and Ben on the night will be local artist, Tim Bishop. All ages are welcome, but please note that under 14s are to be accompanied by an adult.
17th March: Jazz Club in the Café
Visit St James for the ‘Sounds of Jazz’ with some of Guernsey’s finest Jazz players. With tapas and drinks available, this night of music is sure to be fun for all.
17th - 19th March: The Alderney Literary Trust festival
A classic Alderney event, The Alderney Literary Festival, is back at The Island Hall, Connaught Square. This years theme is ‘Mistaken History’ and there will be 12 talks featuring international writers and speakers. Select individual events or buy a ticket to all 12 events and talks taking place during the festival. 16s and under go free, although these Young Person’s tickets are limited so be sure to book your place now to avoid disappointment.
18th March: Guernsey Symphonic Orchestra - To Stir The World
The Guernsey Symphony Orchestra are delighted to welcome back guest conductor Colin Metters to St James. With a programme of music featuring Weber, Bruch and Dvořák, this concert is not one to miss.
25th March: Both Sides Now - an homage to the songs of Joni Mitchell
This homage to the songs of Joni Mitchell at St James in St Peter Port features a world class band of international musicians including Redtenbacher's Funkestra, who act as the 'house band' at the Masterlink recording studios in Surrey. The concept has the blessing of the official Joni Mitchell website, so is sure to be a special evening. Accompanying record features artists such as platinum selling 'Rumer' and other esteemed vocalists. Tickets are available for downstairs unallocated cabaret-style seating, or upstairs unallocated seating. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.
31st March - Wild Islands’ ‘The Blue’ Premiere
Visit the Princess Royal Centre for Performing Arts for the World Premiere of Wild Islands’ ‘The Blue’. The short documentary dives into the waters of the Channel Islands, following vast pods of dolphins, exploring the hidden world of seagrass meadows and highlighting the amazing conservation efforts taking place across the islands.
Make sure to visit the What's On page to find out things to do on the Islands of Guernsey in future months.
