Christmas In Jersey 2018: Events, Activities, And Traditions

Christmas is a magical time of the year, and Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, is no exception. Located off the coast of Normandy, France, Jersey is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique blend of British and French cultures. As the festive season approaches, Jersey comes alive with a range of events, activities, and traditions that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Christmas Events in Jersey

Jersey hosts a variety of Christmas events throughout the island, catering to all ages and interests. Some of the most popular events include:

Jersey Christmas Market: Held in the historic town of St. Helier, the Jersey Christmas Market offers a range of local goods, crafts, and food stalls, as well as live music and entertainment.
Santa's Grotto: Located in the Royal Square, Santa's Grotto is a must-visit for kids of all ages, where they can meet Santa Claus and receive a special gift.
Jersey Christmas Lights Switch-On: The annual Christmas lights switch-on ceremony takes place in St. Helier, featuring live music, festive food, and a special appearance by Santa Claus.
Ice Skating at Fort Regent: Enjoy outdoor ice skating at Fort Regent, a 19th-century fort that offers breathtaking views of the island.

Christmas Activities in Jersey

In addition to the various events, Jersey offers a range of Christmas activities to enjoy, including:

Christmas Shopping: Jersey is a shopper's paradise, with a range of high-street brands, local boutiques, and markets selling unique gifts and souvenirs.
Festive Food and Drink: Indulge in Jersey's culinary delights, including traditional Christmas treats, such as mince pies and mulled wine.
Winter Walks: Explore Jersey's beautiful countryside and coastline on a winter walk, taking in the island's stunning scenery and wildlife.
Christmas Crafts: Get creative with Jersey's range of Christmas craft workshops, where you can make your own decorations, gifts, and cards.

Christmas Traditions in Jersey

Jersey has a rich cultural heritage, and Christmas is no exception. Some of the island's unique Christmas traditions include:

La Longue Veille: A traditional Jersey Christmas Eve celebration, where families gather to share stories, sing carols, and enjoy festive food and drink.
Le Rèveillon: A special Christmas dinner, typically served after midnight mass, featuring local delicacies, such as seafood and dairy products.
Les Rois: A Jersey tradition, where a special cake, known as "gâteau des rois," is served on January 6th, to celebrate the Epiphany.

Accommodation and Dining in Jersey

Jersey offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to self-catering apartments and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

The Royal Yacht Hotel: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of St. Helier, offering comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a range of dining options.
The Grand Jersey Hotel: A 5-star hotel situated on the waterfront, featuring luxurious rooms, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
La Haule Manor: A 4-star guesthouse located in a historic manor house, offering comfortable rooms, a garden, and a delicious breakfast.

In terms of dining, Jersey is renowned for its fresh seafood, dairy products, and traditional British cuisine. Some popular restaurants include:

The Jersey Crab Shack: A seafood restaurant located on the waterfront, serving fresh crab, lobster, and other seafood delicacies.
The Duke of Normandie: A traditional British pub, offering a range of pub classics, including fish and chips, burgers, and Sunday roasts.
Le Petit Café: A cozy café, serving a range of breakfast and lunch options, including pastries, sandwiches, and salads.

Getting to Jersey

Jersey is easily accessible by air and sea, with regular flights and ferry services from the UK and Europe. Some popular options include:

British Airways: Offering regular flights from London Gatwick and London City airports.
EasyJet: Providing flights from London Gatwick, Liverpool, and other UK airports.
Condor Ferries: Operating ferry services from Poole, Portsmouth, and other UK ports.

Insider Tips

Book your accommodation and restaurants in advance, as Christmas is a peak season in Jersey.
Wrap up warm, as Jersey can be chilly in winter, especially in the evenings.
Try some of Jersey's unique Christmas traditions, such as La Longue Veille and Le Rèveillon.
Explore the island's beautiful countryside and coastline, which is particularly stunning during the winter months.