Spring is just around the corner on the Islands of Guernsey. Come explore the outdoors on a hike along our cliff paths or, if you're feeling brave, head a dip in the sea.
Whether you're looking to join in an organised sport event, try your hand at a new craft, learn about history or enjoy the local arts scene, there is plenty going on in the coming months.
We've gathered upcoming events here for you to explore.
April
1st - 26th April: Sark 2024 Bailiwick Wildlife Photography Exhibition
La Société Sercquaise is delighted to announce the arrival of this exceptional celebration of Bailiwick wildlife at the Heritage Room from Easter Monday to the 26th April, 11am-1pm.
Each year, a Guest Judge is selected with a category specialisation. This year features Barry Wells and his intricate insect macro photography. Barry captures the natural beauty of Guernsey, aiming to foster a greater appreciation for the Island’s biodiversity and the crucial need to protect local wildlife and their habitats. Barry Wells co-founded The Pollinator Project in 2017 with Vanessa Crispini-Adams and serves as its honorary President.
1st - 5th April: Sark Nature Week 2024
Immerse yourself in the wonderful natural beauty of Sark - brought to you by La Société Sercquaise. Featuring a variety of activities from Wildflower Walks to Nature Quiz Night and film screenings, this is not to be missed by nature lovers.
2nd - 26th April: Art at The Park ‘A Brush with Nature’s Palette’ by Wendy Griffin
Wendy Griffin’s new exhibition ‘A Brush with Nature’s Palette’ will be opening on Tuesday 2nd of April at Saumarez Park. Her delightful pastels along with gorgeous oil paintings of the local landscapes and seascapes provide a calming and relaxing atmosphere. Many of these have been painted ‘en plein air’.
6th April: That Bubble Show
Experience the enchanting world of bubbles as Chloe Ferguson, a Guinness World Record-holding Bubbleologist, presents her debut theatrical production, 'That Bubble Show,' at the Princess Royal Centre for Performing Arts. Prepare to be amazed by mesmerising displays of light, smoke and bubbles. Please note that this show is suitable for ages 3+.
10th April: Big Comedy: Milton Jones
Milton Jones is a highly talented, award-winning comedian beginning his newest show, and lots of laughs, to St James. Please note that this show might not be suitable for children.
12th April: Electric Footprints
Electric Footprints is a Jazz-Hip Hop crossover group formed of three London session players and friends, Harry Pope, Joe Downard and James Beckwith. Their live sets are free flowing, eclectic and always focused on heavy, dirty grooves. They will be at St James as part of The Global Collection. All ages welcome, under 14s to be accompanied by an adult. The Global Collection is kindly supported by BOW Trustees, Guernsey Arts, Rocquettes Cider and The John Ramplin Charitable Trust.
12th - 15th April: Intimate Spring Sark Retreat
Experience a rejuvenating weekend of Yoga, Reiki, and Nature in Sark. The retreat includes ensuite rooms at the Stocks Hotel, including delicious vegetarian brunch and 2-course vegetarian evening meals.
14th April: The Sure Guernsey Marathon 2024
Join athletes for the annual Guernsey Marathon. The race takes participants through some of Guernsey’s most scenic areas, starting on South Esplanade at the bottom of the Val Des Terres, and is an opportunity to see parts of the Island you may otherwise not get to experience. The course will have 8 water stations and plenty of marshalls to keep you along the right track and encourage you as you run. Please note that entrants must be over 18.
19th - 21st April: St James Dance Festival
Head to St James for a weekend full of dance workshops and socials; a 50s dance party on Saturday night featuring ‘The Class of ’58’ on of the UK’s most popular Rock’nRoll and Doowoop bands; plus a traditional Tea Dance on Sunday to round off the weekend. The dance workshops include Salsa, Bachata, Cha Cha Cha, Lindy Hop and Rock’n’Roll, and are free of charge.
21st - 27th April: World Bowls Indoor Championships
The World Bowls Indoor Championships will be taking place in Guernsey in April 2024 at the Indoor Bowls Centre. Keep your eye out for more information, which will be available nearer the time.
23rd April - 5th May: The Guernsey Literary Festival
An annual celebration of writing in Guernsey. There is a huge collection of more than 50 events, from talks by published authors, workshops where participants can improve their own writing, poetry readings and more. A full programme of events can be found on The Guernsey Literary Festival Website, and we’d recommend getting your tickets soon as certain events have limited space available.
May
30th April - 24th May: Gerie Green Art and Textile Exhibition
Explore the newest exhibition from local artist Gerie Green at the National Trust of Guernsey Folk and Costume Museum. Of Paint and Pearls showcases paintings and embroidery works inspired by Guernsey’s beautiful landscapes, sea creatures and dramatic skies.
4th May: La Beltane, Sark
Welcome in the magical month of May, celebrating the blossom, and the bluebells and the birds in Sark. La Beltane is is a modern day re-creation and celebration of an ancient Iron Age Celtic ritual and is the only of its kind to be found in the Channel Islands. Having been resurrected as a practice last year, it is quickly becoming a popular event for our community, bringing many people together to acknowledge and revel in the birth of the summer and the beauty of our island at springtime. A team of enthusiasts put together a medley of traditional May Day celebration events to kick off the season.
5th May: Seafront Sunday
Enjoy an al-fresco vibe along the St Peter Port seafront on certain Sunday during the summer months.
Each Seafront Sunday has a different theme, but all offer the chance to stroll along the seafront, enjoying the casual friendly atmosphere. This Sunday will be an EDABL 'Eat Drink and Be Local!' celebration of local produce.
5th May: Journey into history - guided tours of Batterie Mirus
Embark on a captivating journey as we invite you to join us for a guided tour of one of the historic gun emplacements which makes up part of the remarkable Batterie Mirus fortification. This exclusive opportunity grants you access to a hidden gem of military history, revealing a labyrinthine of once-secret corridors and rooms of the largest gun emplacements built in the Channel Islands during WW2.
5th, 12th, 19th & 26th May: Candie Concerts
The Guernsey Street Festival presents Candie Concerts, from 3pm – 4pm in Candie Gardens. Come along to hear a selection of live music from across the genres and styles.
7th May: Occupation Explorer Special Tour
Embark on an historical journey with our unique Occupation Explorer tour visiting what we consider to be the best WWll museums on the island, depicting this important part of Guernsey’s history. This tour is led by Amanda Johns, a local born Accredited Tour Guide who specialises in WWll tours.
9th May: Liberation Day
2024 is the 79th anniversary of Guernsey's Liberation, commemorating the Islands' freedom from German Occupation during World War II.
Liberation Day is the most important day in Guernsey’s calendar and commemorates the islands’ freedom from the German Occupation during World War II.
Celebrated annually on 9th May, the festivities provide an opportunity for islanders to remember the days of Occupation, which played such a monumental role in shaping both the landscape and the lives of the people of Guernsey.
Many events take place in St Peter Port and around the island on Liberation Day. Details will be available nearer the time.
12th May: Unveiling History inside the German Underground Hospital
Join us for a guided tour inside the largest structural reminder of the German Occupation existing in the Channel Islands. Your guide will provide you with information on the construction and use of this facility during WW2.
19th May: GU36 - The Guernsey Ultra
A 36 mile, fully marked, mixed terrain race around Guernsey.
The circular route starts in the picturesque town of St. Peter Port before leading on to 16 miles of beautifully rugged cliffs. From here it is fairly flat going along the west coast, where you will enjoy the view of the sweeping bays and beaches. At around mile 25 there will be another fully stocked checkpoint and kiosk to replenish you before continuing around the north coast of the island and finally the east coast back to St Peter Port and the finish.
This is an ideal race for those wanting to step up to ultra distance. With the checkpoints further apart than you may be used to when running marathons, this will accustom you to the more self-sufficient way that most ultra races are run.
19th May: Seafront Sunday
Enjoy an al-fresco vibe along the St Peter Port seafront on certain Sunday during the summer months.
Each Seafront Sunday has a different theme, but all offer the chance to stroll along the seafront, enjoying the casual friendly atmosphere. This Sunday will be a GSPCA themed event - a fun day for all the family to celebrate the animals in Guernsey and all the wonderful work that is done to care for them.
25th & 26th May: Guernsey Together Festival 2024
A celebration of music, dance and food & drink for creating unforgettable summer memories will be held over two days, on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May.
There’s an enviable line up of some of the hottest UK and European tribute acts supported by local bands, showcasing the best of Guernsey’s music scene. New acts will be performing in front of a crowd on the BBC Introducing stage, while for festival goers wanting an alternative, there’s the return of the Tropical Dance Tent. The VIP tent will give paying guests access to a bar, a relaxed atmosphere and a good view of the main stage.
There will also be a family zone with bouncy castles, the Rodeo Bull and entertainment for all. You will also find a number of boutique food stalls serving great Guernsey food and crafters selling their handmade items.
25th May - 9th June: The Spring Walking Festival
Join experienced and professional Guides from the Bailiwick of Guernsey Guild of Accredited Guides for their annual Spring Walking Festival. From Saturday 25 May to Sunday 9 June, every day will see a range of guided walks exploring the wonders of Guernsey, Herm and Sark.
From coastal hikes and hidden ruettes tranquilles, to exploring our beautiful capital, each walk starts close to a bus stop and parking area, and all are rated from an easy amble to a more testing hike. 40 locally accredited silver and gold Guides will share their knowledge and help you to discover so much about the islands.
There are 47 walks included, including 14 brand-new tours for 2024.
Make sure to visit the What's On page to find out things to do on the Islands of Guernsey in future months.
