Get in the Christmas spirit with a short break in Jersey

Wednesday, 30 November 2011 2:40 PM

With Christmas on the way, heading to Jersey for a short break in early December is certainly a fabulous way to get into the seasonal spirit. By doing so, you'll be able to be part of La Fete de Noue - the island's annual festive celebrations.

Translating as Christmas Festival in English, La Fete de Noue is an ideal activity for both those taking short breaks in Jersey and locals alike to embrace the feelings of goodwill, positivity and peace that tend to be synonymous with the time of year.

The action kicks off on December 1st at St Helier and while the town is the focus for many of the events that take place, you will discover there are amazing things going on across the entire island.

However, there is perhaps no better destination to start getting into the Christmas spirit than St Helier as the old chestnut trees in the town's Royal Square will be illuminated in a special ceremony.

From here, head over to the Weighbridge Place - where you'll find a monument built to commemorate the anniversary of Jersey being liberated from Nazi control during the second world war - to see a modern Christmas tree statue consisting of glowing spheres be lit. With a fantastic firework display rounding off the night's events, you are certain to be left full of festive cheer, despite Christmas Day itself still being more than several weeks away.

With La Fete de Noue running for ten days, there will be plenty of other attractions and activities to be involved in, so it is well worth checking to see what's on in Jersey to ensure that you do not miss out on anything.

Indeed, there are numerous street theatre performances and ghost walks going on, so there is a lot to catch your interest; however, with many of these events being free to attend you don't have to worry that taking a break here will quickly leave you out of pocket.

In fact, the money you save by checking out some of the free activities may leave you with more cash to spend at the open-air Christmas markets.

Browse the stalls here and you're sure to find a fabulous array of items to buy as gifts for loved ones, although of course you may be inclined to treat yourself too!

Whoever you're purchasing for, sipping on a cup of mulled wine or coffee is certainly a great way to keep warm while you walk. There are also a number of food outlets here that serve tasty hot and cold dishes, ideal if you have worked up an appetitive from present buying.

Depending on what day you decide to visit the market, you may arrive in time to be part of wonderful special events like storytelling sessions and cupcake decorating - both of which are sure to make you feel even more Christmassy!

Other Jersey tourism highlights at this time of year include concerts and themed walks, with a fantastic parade featuring floats, music and dancing bringing La Fete de Noue to a close.

Whether you plan to just spend a few days in Jersey or you want to take in the event in its entirety, a trip to the island in December is bound to see you embrace the Christmas spirit.