Small as they may be, the Channel Islands are brimming with year-round attractions, but two of the islands are particularly bustling this time of year. Visiting Jersey and Guernsey invariably takes you on a quest for discovery dotted with unique sites and landmarks. The Mansell Car Collection, the world's smallest chapel, Victor Hugo's beloved Hauteville House, the wartime relics, the ancient castles, the boundless beaches and the countless Napoleonic lookouts are only the tip of the iceberg.
But if your itinerary features outdoor activities at this time of year, you'd be forgiven for giving Jack Frost the cold shoulder mid-way through. Not to worry; there will be other chances to enjoy moonwalks on a seabed sprinkled with bioluminescent creatures at low tide. So, don't feel bad for striking an expedition at the Jersey Zoo or a La Mare Wine Estate outing off the list. We know a few winter attractions that are sure to warm the cockles of your heart, literally, when you're visiting Jersey and Guernsey.
La Fête de Noué, 23 Nov – 14 Jan
Get into the swing of the season with the Christmas Festival in Jersey. Featuring spectacular parades, cabaret, panto, concerts and a suite of Christmas markets and fayres with genuine local and Norman French artisans selling their various wares at venues across the island, La Fête de Noué is a must-see extravaganza. To top it off, the Battle of Flowers is a procession that hovers above the streets of St. Helier with colourful floats, glimmering lights and dancing performers of all ages.
Winter Fayre at Castle Cornet, 25 Nov – 26 Nov
Castle Cornet in St. Peter Port, Guernsey brings you the best of winter fayres: kids crafts, Santa's grotto, and live music. But this year's edition will also feature a sci-fi theme, in line with the ENGAGE WARP DRIVE exhibition hosted by the Candie. While you're there, take a tour of the castle and round off the day with mulled wine.
Christmas Market at Jersey War Tunnels, 30 Nov
Take your letter straight to Father Christmas himself at the Christmas Market, because Santa's postbox never fills up. In fact, Santa comes to collect every single letter every single day, so head on confidently to the Mange Tout Café. Pen your letter to Santa, cake in hand, amid festive stalls and live entertainment. Then paint a gift with your own two hands at the Nest Art Studio.
St. Brelade's Community Christmas Fayre, 12 Dec
It's not just for a good cause; it's for a good laugh. Christmas stalls, bouncy castle, face painting, and all manner of merrymaking will be taking place at the St. Brelade Christmas Fayre. All proceeds go to charity, so don't forget to try Jersey's traditional Bean Crock, and wash down the hearty dish with a freshly brewed mulled wine. The local social club, the Jersey Round Table, brings you a jolly Santa to keep the children busy and chatty. A fireworks display and the grand Christmas lights switch-on round off the festivities with a bang.
Guernsey Concert Brass, 2 Dec
Commemorating the centenary of the battle of Cambrai, the Guernsey Concert Brass relives the story of local menfolk as they fought in the Light Infantry during WWI. Featuring a live choir, this production tells their moving story through music and narration as word and melody join forces to tap deep into the audience's emotions.
