Jersey Entertainment

Entertainment on Jersey is either very limited or surprisingly extensive, depending on your point of view. This is a laid back island, where pubs rule the roost. You wont find too much happening outside the capital city of St Helier, but at least there are a few nightclubs and bars if you feel like partying.

Nightlife

Jersey is home to dozens of pubs, which come in all shapes and sizes. Many of them can be found in the towns, but there is also a fair number of country pubs scattered around the rural parts of the island. In general, pubs close up at 23:00, but bars that serve food often stay open later. St Helier naturally has the greatest concentration of bars, some of which are very nice. The Lamplighter Pub is one of the more popular spots, thanks to its large selection of ales and a cosy atmosphere. For something a bit trendier, check out Bohemia or City Bar, both located in the centre of town. If you need to catch a sports match on TV, head over to All Sports Bar.

There are also 15 nightclubs in Jersey, most of which are located on the Esplanade, Weighbridge and Waterfront area of St Helier. These dance clubs are open until 02:30 every night of the week if you feel the need to stay out late. Another pleasant way to entertain yourself is at one of the islands many country pubs. They are always set in a lovely area with beer gardens in the summer and cosy fireside evenings during the winter. The 17th century Portelet Bay Pub is one of the finest in Jersey, as is the Quaism Pub in St Brelade. If nothing else, you can always catch a movie at one of the two cinemas in St Helier.

Theatre and music

Some of the pubs host live music during the busy summer months, but in general the theatre and music scene is rather quiet in Jersey. You wont find anything in the way of cultural performance arts, unless it happens to be part of one of the many summer festivals.

Festivals

For a tiny little island, Jersey has one of the most comprehensive and interesting festival schedules in the world. Everything from cultural events to modern art and music festivals happen during the warmer months at spots around the island.

• Channel Islands Festival of Food and Drink is a gourmet celebration of samplings from across the UK and Europe. Celebrity chefs and demonstrations add to the fun (May).
• Foire de Jersey is the islands traditional country fair and one of the highlights of the summer. Dozens of different activities, demonstrations and competitions make this a great family event (May).
• Gorey Regatta is one of the oldest sailing regattas in the world, adding food and entertainment to this international sailors festival (June).
• Jersey Street Theatre Festival brings the streets of St Helier alive with a mix of theatre, dance, art and comedy performances that highlight Jerseys cultural diversity (July).
• Battle of the Flowers Carnival is one of the most spectacular events in Europe. Floats covered in flowers, musicians, dancers and entertainers of all kinds put on a huge performance in this Jersey highlight (August).