The festive season is right around the corner, and there are plenty of events and activities happening on the Islands of Guernsey to help you get into the holiday spirit.
Whether you want to find unique gifts at our independent shops and Christmas Markets, attend a Christmas concert or enjoy a relaxing festive cocktail, there is something for everyone.
We've compiled a list of things to do in Guernsey this Christmas to help you plan your trip.
Family Festivities
Ice Skating
Grab your skates (or borrow them!) and head to Guernsey's ice skating rink at Le Friquet Garden Centre. Spin around the Christmas tree, and then head to the café where you can enjoy a hot chocolate and some baked treats. Skate aids are available for younger visitors, just make sure to reserve one on your booking as they are very popular.
Santa Paws
Also at Le Friquet Garden Centre, treat your four-legged friend to a festive grotto experience they won’t forget!
Upon arrival, you and your dog will be greeted by a cheerful and loveable elf, who will guide you to the reindeer stables. There, you’ll get to mix up a special bag of delicious dog treats. Then, it’s time for a heart-warming moment with the big man himself, every dog will receive a special gift from Santa, sure to get tails wagging.
Winter Wonderland
This annual event sees a St Saviour’s garden, owned by the Bachmann family, turned into a festive wonderland. With lights, decorations, family activities, Christmas treats and Father Christmas himself, the event is dedicated to raising money for charitable causes.
This year's Winter Wonderland is on Wednesday 2nd December and tickets are on sale soon.
Christmas Tractor Run
This popular annual event sees the island's tractors come out in force, decorated with everything from fairy lights and tinsel, to Christmas trees and inflatable Santas.
Sit on a coastal wall or head into town to cheer on the tractors as they pass, spreading Christmas cheer as they tour the island.
The Guernsey Christmas Tractor Run is taking place on Saturday 12th December 2026.
Christmas Shopping
Late-Night Shopping
Every year during December, businesses in St Peter Port stay open until 9pm on Thursdays, so that visitors and locals alike can enjoy some Christmas shopping and the friendly festive atmosphere underneath the town's twinkly Christmas lights. Whether you are looking for the perfect gift or want to treat yourself, you’re guaranteed to find something special. If you need a bit of inspiration, you can find some recommendations for Guernsey gifting in this guide.
On both Thursday evenings and Saturdays during the festive period, local small businesses and stall holders also set up in the Market Square of St Peter Port, so there is even more to peruse. Often, there will be live music from various performers to get you in the festive spirit.
Herm Christmas Shopping Trips
Sail over to Herm throughout November and December for the perfect Christmas shopping trip. With plenty of decorations, cards and ornaments, as well as beautiful and unique stocking fillers and gift ideas to make your Christmas extra special, the Herm Shop is always full of treasures. You can even post your letters to Santa in the Puffin post box!
After shopping, enjoy a walk around the island and tuck into a festive meal at the Mermaid Tavern.
Festive Alderney
Spend an evening feeling festive in Alderney, browsing the boutique shops in Victoria Street and rounding off your night with a mulled wine or dinner in one of the island's cosy pubs. There's lots more happening, too - including walks, pantomimes and Santa train rides.
2026 Christmas Markets
The Islands of Guernsey have traditional markets all year round, but the fairs and markets during the festive season are truly special. From homemade goods to festive food and drink, these unique markets are not to be missed. Check back soon for more dates added to the list below for 2026:
- Annual Christmas Markets at Les Cotils – Sunday 9th November, 10am - 4pm
- National Trust of Guernsey Christmas Courtyard Market at the Folk & Costume Museum - Monday 7th December, 5pm - 8pm
The Victorian Christmas Shop at 26 Cornet Street, St Peter Port will open on Friday 13th November until Saturday 19th December 2026. Step through the historic green doors and bask in the glow of the fireplace, an overflowing sweet counter and festive tables stocked with vintage gift. On Thursdays in December, the shop is open until 8pm, offering mince pies and mulled wine.
Food & Drink Experiences
Alpine Lodge at the OGH
Each year, the terrace at the Old Government House is transformed into a stylish and cosy Alpine Lodge, complete with snowy scenery and everything you’d want in an après ski experience.
The bar is fully stocked with festive drinks, including mulled wine, hot spiced cider, beer, hot chocolate, and a wide selection of schnapps and flavoured vodkas to get you into the Christmas spirit. There is also delicious food, including a cheese fondue and beef goulash.
You won't want to miss Family Sundays, where children are welcome to come along and enjoy festive activities, as well as meet Father Christmas.
Christmas Lunches at The Mermaid Tavern
Join The Mermaid Tavern for a festive party lunch!
This December, The Mermaid Tavern is offering a 3-course Christmas Party Menu, filled with festive favourites and island charm.
Bookings are available for just £37 per person, including return ferry travel.
Domes at the Duke
The highly anticipated Domes at The Duke return this November, with scenic views of Candie Gardens and the sea beyond.
The Domes will be available to book from 19 November to 31 December 2026, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed and memorable festive experience with friends, family, colleagues or loved ones.
Whether it’s a leisurely festive lunch, a beautifully indulgent Afternoon Tea or a cosy Christmas dinner beneath the lights, the Domes are the perfect place to escape into your own little festive world. Warm, intimate and wonderfully atmospheric, they offer a unique way to celebrate the season while enjoying the food, drinks and hospitality of The Duke Hotel.
Festive Afternoon Tea
Enjoy a festive twist on the quintessential afternoon tea experience, available from November to early January.
Find a cosy corner at the Old Government House Hotel and tuck into smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches, as well as a brie and caramelised onion tartlet, before rounding off with a clementine parfait and eggnog custard tart. Tables are available from 23 November until 3 January.
Alternatively, head to the The Dax at The Duke to enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches and savoury snacks, including turkey and cranberry, prosciutto and figs, and pigs in blankets. Finish your afternoon with a selection of homemade treats, including a christmas tree mendiant, dark chocolate & olive mousse and freshly baked scones.
Visit the Christmas Lights
Christmas Lights Switch On
Join in the Christmas Lights Switch On in St Peter Port on Saturday 28th November, where Santa Claus will be travelling through town to greet children, before turning on the lights.
He is expected to start at the Model Yacht Pond before heading through town to Market Square, where he will host the official light switch-on for the town.
Petit Train Tours
Get in the festive spirit and jump aboard Victor the Petit Train for a tour of the wonderful Christmas lights in St Peter Port.
Check back soon for dates for 2026.
Christmas Lights Tuk Tuk Tours
This Christmas, book a ride in your own motorised sleigh!
Tuk Tuk Guernsey will be running their annual Christmas Lights Tours again this year, starting from the Albert Pier.
To give you the best view possible, the Tuk Tuks will have their roofs down, so ensure to wrap up warm! Each Tuk Tuk seats 2 passengers.
Age requirement: 6+
Keep a look out for details of dates for 2026 nearer the time!
Festive Dips and Swims
Year-round wild swimming has been growing in popularity on The Islands of Guernsey over the past few years, and is enjoyed by many islanders. You can head down to any bay you wish and take a dip, or you can get involved in one of the festive swimming events happening across the islands.
Swimming outdoors in the winter is particularly cold, so you will need to prepare - grab your fluffiest hats, flasks of tea and lots of layers before heading to the beach.
This important fundraiser for Les Bourgs Hospice is a great way to catch up with friends and family over the Christmas period. All you have to do is take a dip in 12 festively themed bays around the island between 1st - 31st December.
The Guernsey Swimming Club will hold their annual Polar Bear Swim on Christmas Day at La Vallette Bathing Pools.
This year taking place from 9:30am - 11am, the event is open to all, boasting a wonderful atmosphere for all ages.
Join thousands of islanders as they brave the cold and take a dip in the sea on Boxing Day.
Taking place at Cobo Bay, it is an extremely popular annual event which supports the upkeep of a vital local charity, The Guernsey Cheshire Home.
