With yoga retreats, sporting events, artistic workshops, concerts and more on offer, 2026 is already in full swing in the Islands of Guernsey.
See below the upcoming events our Islands have in store for you.
MAY
1st May - 14th June: Making an Honest Living - Exhibition
Making an Honest Living celebrates Guernsey’s growing community and the people who cultivate the island’s land. The exhibition highlights the skill and dedication behind local produce, honouring the growers who shape Guernsey’s food culture and agricultural heritage.
Guernsey-born painter and printmaker Emma Griffin began researching the island’s growing industry in 2023, inspired by a deep curiosity about her roots and the land that feeds the community. Since then, she has explored the stories, landscapes and labour that define Guernsey’s agricultural identity, bringing them together in a body of work that celebrates food, place and honest work.
1st - 7th May: Guernsey Literary Festival
The Guernsey Literary Festival, which runs from from 23 April to 7 May, is now established as one of the biggest annual arts events in the Channel Islands, will feature more than 50 events, including a full education and community programme.
Coinciding with the National Year of Reading, the 2026 Festival brings together a richly varied programme of 80 events with access, connection and reading for pleasure at its heart 📚
View the full programme and book tickets at www.guernseyliteraryfestival.com
1st May - 7th June: Gourmet Guernsey Exhibition
Showcasing a variety of artworks across different styles and mediums, the exhibition offers a creative exploration of the island’s food culture, from local produce to shared dining experiences.
The Guernsey Arts Gourmet brings together artists and audiences in a celebration of creativity, community, and the joy of food.
2nd May: La Beltane: Sark May Day Celebrations
The Saturday fayre promises a vibrant mix of traditions and activities, featuring the ceremonial well-dressing, captivating mummers plays, joyful maypole dancing, and the crowning of May Queens.
Visitors can also enjoy various crafts, hands-on workshops, and diverse entertainment throughout the day. As the sun sets, the festivities ignite with the dramatic burning of a wicker man, an energetic ceilidh, and an electrifying showcase of brilliant local and international bands.
3rd May: Seafront Sunday - Animal Welfare in aid of GSPCA
St Peter Port's picturesque seafront becomes a busy market filled with local arts and crafts, produce, drinks & food on certain Sundays in the summer. Stroll along the seafront and enjoy the casual, friendly atmosphere.
3rd May: Cobo Balcony Gig - A Tribute to Queen
The Cobo Balcony Gigs have become a major part of Guernsey summers over the past 30 years and bring a real carnival atmosphere to the Cobo seafront whilst raising much needed funds for local charities.
6th May - 5th June: Art at The Park - Earth Matters
'Earth Matters' is a new art exhibition by Bridget Spinney. It opens at the National Trust of Guernsey's Art at the Park Gallery at the Folk and Costume Museum on Wednesday 6th May and runs until Friday 5th June. Opening times are 10am until 5pm daily (Please be aware that the exhibition will close at 2pm on the final day.). The Gallery is free entry and accessible friendly.
9th May: Liberation Day
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.
10th May: Liberation Day in Sark
Liberation Day is the most important day in Guernsey’s calendar and commemorates the islands’ freedom from the German Occupation during World War II.
10th May: Journey into history - Guided tour 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.
13th - 18th May: Art Retreat in Herm
Immerse yourself in the calm, creative rhythm of island life with a five-night artistic escape for all abilities, led by esteemed tutor Richard John Nichols. Surrounded by the peaceful landscapes of Herm, this retreat offers the perfect balance of expert guidance, inspirational scenery, and relaxed island charm.
14th May: The Great Courtyard Charity Quiz in Herm
Head to Herm for a friendly, fun-packed quiz night, raising money for Guernsey Chest & Heart.
16th May: Moving Through Time
You are invited to afternoon tea themed 'Moving Through Time' with Barbara Caldecourt.
Barbara has always had a love of flowers, from winning a prize in a Brownie competition to becoming a British Master Florist. She had a wonderful second career training florists and teaching flower arranging at a Landbased College in Surrey for 25 years.
17th May: Seafront Sunday - Association of Guernsey Charities
St Peter Port's picturesque seafront becomes a busy market filled with local arts and crafts, produce, drinks & food on certain Sundays in the summer. Stroll along the seafront and enjoy the casual, friendly atmosphere.
17th May: BWCI Race for Life
We look forward to raising money together towards the fight against cancer, with proceeds going to Cancer Research UK/Guernsey Branch. 3km and 5km distances available.
21st - 24th May: Gandey's KPOP Dragon Circus
Step into the spectacular world of Gandey’s K-Pop Dragon Circus — a dazzling fusion of East meets West, where magic, music, and myth unite beneath the big top.
23rd May - 7th June: 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 23 May to Sunday 7 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.
26th May: Japanese Calligraphy Evening Workshop
Experience the beauty of the ancient art of Japanese calligraphy and produce your own hand drawn works using traditional methods.
28th May: Traditional Spinning Demonstrations
Join our heritage spinners on the Courtyard at the Folk and Costume Museum for a hands-on demonstration.
Whether you’re curious about taking up a new hobby, eager to learn a traditional skill, or simply enjoy watching craftspeople at work, these mornings offer a wonderful glimpse into the island’s textile heritage — all set within our beautiful museum surroundings. This is a free event.
30th May: Sark 10 Race
Widely regarded as one of the most scenic races in the Channel Islands, the annual Sark 10 trail run returns for its 44th year on Saturday 30 May 2026.
Set against the stunning natural backdrop of Sark, challenge yourself to the full 10 miles (that loops around the entire island) or take on the 5K option before enjoying the hospitality of Sark.
Make sure to visit the What's On page to find out things to do on the Islands of Guernsey in future months.
