WK_Jersey

Jersey abounds with myth, superstition and strange customs. Prehistoric menhirs and dolmens gave rise to devil worship and witchcraft, and stormy seas sowed the seeds of legend.

Many are the tales of wreckers who lured ships onto the treacherous reef of La Corbière by burning fires near the rocks, indicating a safe haven from the stormy waters. The invariable shipwreck would bring death to the crew and precious cargo to the fishermen.

Medieval legend tells the story of the dragon of St Lawrence, who terrorised the islanders and who was slain by Lord of Hambye from Normandy.

On the north coast tales were told of the Black Dog of Bouley Bay, a terrifying creature with huge saucer eyes that roamed the coastline of the bay.

Some islanders are still superstitious. Legend has it that anyone who witnesses cattle on bended knees on Christmas Eve (in other words, worshipping) will die before the year is out. Several of the old farmers still make sure their cattle are bedded well before the midnight hour.

Among Jersey’s ancient customs is les visites du branchage, the twice-yearly inspections by parish officials to check that no boughs or bushes encroach on roads and footpaths. Fines can be levied on landowners who fail to keep their hedges in trim.

Of all Jersey’s festivals, the biggest crowd-puller is the Battle of Flowers. The first “Battle” took place in 1902 on Victoria Avenue, St Helier, to celebrate the Coronation of King Edward VII. With the exception of World War I and the German Occupation, the event has been held here every year since. Formerly the flowers were ripped out of the floats and a real battle of flowers ensued. Nowadays the entertainment is provided by marching bands, dancers, beauty queens headed by Miss Jersey and a celebrity Mr Battle – all accompanying the parade of spectacular floral floats. Competition between the parishes is fierce.

Festivals and Events

For full listings go to www.jersey.com.

Walking Through Spring Festival: April. Walking festival organised by the National Trust for Jersey.

Liberation Day: 9 May. Islanders celebrate the liberation from the German forces on 9 May 1945.

La Fête du R’nouvé: May. Boutique festival with acoustic music, traditional dance, crafts and storytelling at La Hougue Bie.

13th Parish Festival of Independent Films and Music: May. International short films and documentaries.

June in Bloom: end June. Colourful floral festival with tours, talks and workshops.

Battle of Flowers: Grand Parade second Friday in August, followed on Saturday by the Illuminated Moonlight Parade, with selected floats and bands.

Gorey Fête: Friday of third week in August. Beach events, fairground rides.

Jersey International Air Display: mid-September.

CI Pride: mid-September. The Channel Islands’ biggest and most vibrant LGBTQ+ parade, held on Jersey and Guernsey.

Tennerfest: October/ November. Dining from £10 at over 100 restaurants.

Delicious Dine-Out Festival: October to mid-November. Menus and dishes which champion local produce, at restaurants across the island.

International Guitar Festival: November.

La Fête de Noué: December. Christmas festival. Street entertainment, parades and markets in St Helier.