As an island bursting with culture and diversity, it is no surprise that Guernsey’s event calendar for 2023 is packed with excitement. With a thrilling array of local festivals, celebrations and sporting events, 2023 in Guernsey will be a year to remember. Connecting the local community and attracting international visitors, Guernsey’s events are wholesome, inspiring and exhilarating. If you are visiting Guernsey in 2023, make sure to check out what is going on during your visit to get to know the heart and soul of this breath-taking island.
Guernsey Events Calendar 2023
- Guernsey Events in March 2023
- 5th March – Rocquaine Duathlon
- Guernsey Events in April 2023
- 1st to 30th April – Taste Guernsey Food Festival
- 2nd April – Sure Guernsey Marathon
- 7th to 10th – EY Easter Running Festival
- Guernsey Events in May 2023
- 9th May – Liberation Day 2023
- 10th to 14th May – Guernsey Literary Festival
- 14th May – GU36: Guernsey Ultra
- 20th May to 4th June – Spring Walking Festival
- 27th to 28th May – Guernsey Together Festival
- Guernsey Events in June 2023
- 23rd to 25th June – Chaos Guernsey
- Guernsey Events in July 2023
- 3rd July – Lé Viaër Marchi
- 7th to 9th July – SarkFest
- 8th to 14th July – Guernsey Island Games
- 21st July – Harbour Carnival
- 22nd July – Rocquaine Regatta
- Guernsey Events in August 2023
- 7th to 12th August – Alderney Week
- 16th to 17th August – West Show
- 20th August – Vazon Surf Triathlon
- 23rd to 24th August – North Show and Battle of the Flowers
- 27th August – Vale Earth Fair
- Guernsey Events in September 2023
- 9th September – Proms on the Wicket
- 14th September – Guernsey Air Display
- Guernsey Events in October 2023
- TBA
- Guernsey Events in November 2023
- 5th November – Bonfire Celebrations
- Guernsey Events in December 2023
- 25th December – Polar Bear Swim
- 26th December – Boxing Day Swim
Guernsey Events in March 2023
Rocquaine Duathlon – 5th March 2023
The Rocquaine Duathlon is a unique event that takes place on the picturesque island of Guernsey. As the name may suggest, the event is a duathlon consisting of running and cycling, and it is open to both adults and juniors. The Rocquaine Duathlon will feature two different races – a junior race for those aged 8-15 years old, and an adult race for those aged 16+. Both races will take place on the same course with competitors running 4 miles before cycling 12 miles and then running another 4 miles. The course has been designed to provide a challenge to both experienced athletes and newcomers alike. The duathlon is also a great introductory event before competing in Guernsey’s triathlon later in the year.
Guernsey Events in April 2023
Taste Guernsey Food Festival – 1st to 30th April 2023
A month-long celebration of Guernsey produce and gastronomic delights, the Taste Guernsey Food Festival runs for the entirety of April. Participating restaurants create exquisite menus to showcase the talent of their chefs and the finest Guernsey ingredients. The festival sees some of the most creative dishes hit the Guernsey culinary scene for the most mouth-watering month on the Guernsey calendar. With theme nights and special events throughout the month, the Taste Guernsey Food Festival is a foodie’s dream.
Sure Guernsey Marathon – 2nd April 2023
Taking you around Guernsey’s entire coastline, The Sure Guernsey Marathon is one of Europe’s best running events on an island perfectly designed for running. Starting in St Peter Port, the Guernsey Marathon weaves through every coastal parish on the island taking in the breath-taking and dramatic landscapes of the island’s coast. Take in Guernsey’s most picturesque spots as you run along country lanes, coastal trails and charming valleys. One of the most scenic marathon routes in the world, The Sure Guernsey Marathon is an incredible event for marathon runners to partake in.
EY Easter Running Festival – 7th to 10th April 2023
Taking over Easter weekend in Guernsey to promote health and wellbeing, the EY Easter Running Festival is a sporting event for all. With an array of sporting events across the Bank Holiday weekend, the EY Easter Running Festival welcomes all from novice runners to more experienced athletes. Featuring multiple races including a 5k, 10k and relay, this festival is suitable for all ages and abilities with a junior festival supporting the main event.
Guernsey Events in May 2023
Liberation Day – 9th May 2023
In 2023, Guernsey will be celebrating 78 years of its liberation from German Occupation during World War II. This is an annual commemoration to remember and honour the islands’ freedom. Guernsey celebrates Liberation Day with great enthusiasm and fervour as it marks the day with a host of vibrant and exciting events. Commemorating a momentous event in their history, Liberation Day is one of Guernsey’s biggest and most famous annual events.
Every 9th May, the people of Guernsey come together to observe and celebrate the historic day of Liberation. This is a special day dedicated to commemorating their Occupation period and its invaluable contribution to their past and current culture. St Peter Port and other areas on the island host a multitude of activities to celebrate Liberation Day every year. The island-wide cavalcade will tour the island with more than 100 military vehicles and classic cars. Expect live music, re-enactments and entertainment in all parishes across the island with the main event in St Peter Port concluding with a firework display over Castle Cornet.
Guernsey Literary Festival – 10th to 14th May 2023
The Guernsey Literary Festival is an annual celebration of literature and culture that takes place on the beautiful island of Guernsey. The 2023 edition of the festival will be a special one, with an exciting line-up of authors, poets, and storytellers from around the world. Attendees can expect to enjoy a wide range of events such as panel discussions, book readings, workshops, and literary performances. There will also be special activities for children and families to enjoy. With its unique blend of culture and literature, the Guernsey Literary Festival is sure to be an unforgettable experience in 2023!
GU36: Guernsey Ultra – 14th May 2023
Guernsey Ultra is an annual 36-mile race that takes place on the island of Guernsey. The race takes runners through a variety of terrain on the island, including coastal paths and rocky hills. Participants must be prepared for a gruelling challenge as they traverse the entire island in one day. The event has become an increasingly popular challenge for athletes looking to test themselves against some of the toughest terrain in Europe. Designed for experienced athletes, the Guernsey Ultra offers a unique opportunity to experience a challenging and rewarding long-distance race.
Spring Walking Festival – 20th May to 4th June 2023
The Guernsey Spring Walking Festival is an annual event that celebrates the stunning scenery and unique culture of the island. This festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscape of Guernsey, while also enjoying some of its cultural attractions. The festival features guided walks, talks and workshops that allow visitors to learn more about the island’s history and culture through a variety of activities. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, there is something for everyone at this special event. With a guided walk on offer in all corners of the island, there is no easier way to get to know the island of Guernsey.
Guernsey Together Festival – 27th to 28th May 2023
Bringing Guernsey together for a celebration of music and dance, Guernsey Together Festival is the island’s biggest music festival. Welcoming some of the world’s biggest international artists supported by an outstanding selection of local bands and European tribute acts, Guernsey Together Festival is the musical highlight of the year. Boasting three stages including BBC Introducing showcasing Guernsey’s best talent and The Tropical Dance Tent, a home for alternative music, this festival has a seriously impressive line up. An event for all the family, Guernsey Together Festival also features a family zone offering all day entertainment including a bouncy castle and rodeo bull. Taking over The Rabbit Warren for an entire weekend in May, this exciting music festival is Guernsey’s most anticipated summer party.
Guernsey Events in June 2023
Chaos Guernsey – 23rd to 25th June 2023
Chaos Guernsey is a vibrant and lively event that brings together people from all walks of life. It is an annual gathering that celebrates the music, dance and family traditions of the island. It has become an important part of the cultural identity of Guernsey and is a great, family-friendly celebration. The event draws in thousands of people each year, who come to enjoy the music, dance and culture that is unique to this island and showcased at the event. Chaos Guernsey provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talent, allowing them to reach a wider audience and gain recognition for their work. This event is a great way to experience the culture, music and dance that makes this island so special.
Guernsey Events in July 2023
Lé Viaër Marchi – 3rd July 2023
Hosted by National Trust Guernsey, the traditional island life of Guernsey is expertly showcased at Le Viaër Marchi festival. This annual event celebrates the traditional culture, crafts, music and dancing of the island. Visitors can expect to experience a variety of traditional activities such as folk music and dancing, food stalls selling local delicacies, and craft stalls showcasing traditional island crafts. The festival will also feature performances from local musicians and artists. The Viaër Marchi in Guernsey promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend. Visitors will have a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the island while enjoying some delicious food and entertainment from local performers.
SarkFest – 7th to 9th July 2023
Just a short ferry ride from Guernsey, SarkFest is one of the most exciting music events to hit the Channel Islands. This annual event on the island of Sark showcases the best of contemporary music with artists from the Channel Islands and British Isles. This tiny island has one of the most picturesque coastlines in the world and with its clifftop location, it is the perfect spot for a summer music festival. Hosting live music on four stages across three days, SarkFest is the leading destination to find local talent introducing you to a wide range of up-and-coming artists. A weekend of folk, reggae, blues, acoustic, rock and ska music, SarkFest is the ultimate music festival for niche musical art.
Guernsey Island Games – 8th to 14th July 2023
The 2023 International Island Games, to be held on the beautiful island of Guernsey, are set to be an event like no other. Hosting the International Island Games for the third time, the Guernsey Island Games is set to be the island’s biggest sporting event of the year. Bringing together 24 member islands, the Island Games hosts a series of competitive sporting events every two years. The games bring together athletes from all over the world, competing in a range of sports including sailing, basketball, swimming and more. It is an opportunity to showcase the best sporting talents that these small islands have to offer; a chance for people from different countries and cultures to come together and celebrate sport in one of the most picturesque locations on earth. The 2023 International Island Games will be a truly unique experience for all involved.
Harbour Carnival – 21st July 2023
Every year, the Harbour Carnival in Guernsey brings families and friends together to enjoy a day of fun, fundraising and entertainment. Taking place in St Peter Port, the Harbour Carnival is a family-friendly event that features a variety of activities such as tug of war competitions, duck races, fireworks displays and dinghy races. The carnival also includes fun fair rides for all ages and plenty of food stalls to keep everyone well fed throughout the day. Every year, the Harbour Carnival raises money for local charities and causes through its various fundraising activities. The best of a summer’s day by the seaside, the Harbour Carnival is a fun-filled event of childhood nostalgia.
Rocquaine Regatta – 22nd July 2023
The Rocquaine Regatta is a long-standing tradition in Guernsey, offering a day of entertainment and activities for the whole family. Every year, the regatta brings together the local community with unique competitive events, junior sand events, wife carrying competitions and much more. The highlight of the event is the competitive boat races, which are organised by the local sailing clubs. The event also offers plenty of live music and a barbecue to keep everyone entertained throughout the day. Whether you are looking for some family-friendly fun or just want to watch some thrilling boat races, the Rocquaine Regatta is sure to provide an enjoyable experience for all.
Guernsey Events in August 2023
Alderney Week – 7th to 12th August
The biggest annual carnival in the Channel Islands, Alderney Week is one of the calendar’s most anticipated events. An eclectic collection of 70 different events in one week, Alderney Week has something on offer for everyone. Featuring live music, street entertainment and a whole host of parties, this eccentric festival also offers art exhibitions, midnight walks and so much more. With non-stop action and an excellent atmosphere, something is always happening at Alderney Week. Expect colour runs, vibrant parades and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
West Show – 16th to 17th August
For more than 100 years, the West Show in Guernsey has been a much-loved tradition for locals and visitors alike. The show is an agricultural and horticultural show that provides family entertainment, with a wide range of exhibits including livestock, produce, crafts and more. It is an event that celebrates the best of Guernsey’s culture and traditions. The West Show in Guernsey has something for everyone to enjoy. From horse shows to vintage car displays, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. There are also numerous stalls selling local produce, handmade crafts and other items related to the island’s culture. It’s a great way to experience the unique atmosphere of this beautiful island while also learning about its rich history and traditions.
Vazon Surf Triathlon – 20th August
The Vazon Surf Triathlon is a three-discipline event taking place every year in Guernsey. The infamous surf triathlon involves swimming, cycling, and running along the stunning Vazon Beach. With a swim taking place in Guernsey’s impressive surf conditions, the Vazon Surf Triathlon is one of the most challenging events of its kind. The event attracts athletes from all over Europe and beyond who are looking for an exciting challenge that combines all three disciplines into one race. With its beautiful location and spectacular views, the Vazon Surf Triathlon is an event to remember.
North Show and Battle of the Flowers – 23rd to 24th August 2023
The North Show and Battle of the Flowers is an annual outdoor event held in Guernsey that attracts thousands of people every year. The weekend-long, family-friendly event takes place at Saumarez Park with a range of activities such as workshops for both adults and children to learn about local history and culture, food stalls offering delicious treats from around the world, historical reenactments and a fun fair with plenty of rides and games. On the second afternoon, The Battle of the Flowers is a highlight of the show where participants create beautiful floral displays to compete for prizes. This afternoon event includes a magical parade of colourful floats, an illuminated cavalcade by evening and ends with an enchanting fireworks display.
Vale Earth Fair – 27th August 2023
Promoting music and art in Guernsey, The Vale Earth Fair is the island’s longest running music festival. Founded in 1976, The Vale Earth Fair stays true to its roots hosting this exciting annual event for the community to raise money for humanitarian causes. With twelve hours of live music across six stages, this event caters to all tastes with every music genre showcased. Nicknamed as ‘mini Glastonbury by the sea’, The Vale Earth Fair is one of Europe’s most diverse and inclusive music festivals. Every year that passes, The Vale Earth Fair grows in size with 2023 set to be the biggest and best yet! Held at Vale Castle, the festival also features Guernsey’s finest vegetarian food trucks to keep you going throughout the day. In addition to all the incredible bands, artists and DJs taking to the stage, The Vale Earth Fairs showcases an abundance of diverse forms of live entertainment and a children’s corner to keep the whole family entertained.
Guernsey Events in September 2023
Proms on the Wicket – 9th September 2023
Celebrating the Last Night of the Proms, Proms on the Wicket is a traditional outdoor concert of live music in Guernsey, taking place annually at the end of summer. With live performances from the Guernsey Symphonic Winds and Jazz Band, the concert promises to be a vibrant celebration, with plenty of energy and enthusiasm from both performers and the audience. Lovers of classical music will love this island interpretation of the world’s greatest classical music event.
Guernsey Air Display – 14th September 2023
Get ready to witness the magnificent show of skill and beauty in the skies above Guernsey. Enjoyed by thousands for over 50 years, the 2023 Guernsey Air Display is a spectacular display of aerobatic aircrafts performing daring stunts and manoeuvres in the sky. As one of Europe’s premier air displays, this event welcomes some of Britain’s most treasured historical aircrafts including the iconic Red Arrows. With impressive aerial displays from some of the best pilots in the world, this is an event that you will not want to miss!
Guernsey Events in October 2023
TBA
Guernsey Events in November 2023
Bonfire Celebrations – 5th November 2023
Whilst traditionally celebrated exclusively in England, Bonfire Night is a big event in Guernsey. With magnificent fireworks displays across the island, Bonfire Night in Guernsey sees the dark skies burst into life with an array of colour and sparkle. Bonfire Night is one of the most exciting nights of the year in Guernsey with family-friendly Guy Fawkes events across the island.
Guernsey Events in December 2023
Polar Bear Swim – 25th December 2023
Every year on Christmas Day, hundreds of brave swimmers gather at La Vallette Bathing Pools in Guernsey for the annual Polar Bear Swim. This event has become a popular tradition amongst locals and visitors alike, as they take the plunge into the icy waters of the English Channel. The Polar Bear Swim has become a beloved tradition on Guernsey and it is one of the most popular activities on Christmas Day. It is an opportunity for people to show their courage and resilience while having fun with friends and family. The event also serves as a reminder that even during the coldest days, we can find joy in simple things like taking a dip in icy waters!
Boxing Day Swim – 26th December 2023
Boxing Day is the most popular day of the year to take a dip with the people of Guernsey gathering at Cobo Bay to take part in the Annual Boxing Day Swim. This event is a tradition that has been celebrated for over a hundred years and is a great way for the locals to come together and enjoy some time in the water. The Boxing Day Swim is an exciting event that draws hundreds of people from all over the island. Participants dress up in festive costumes and bravely jump into the cold waters of Cobo Bay. It is a unique experience that brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate this special day.
(Disclaimer: Please check dates with event organisers as the following event dates are subject to change at short notice.)
