It is the most wonderful time of the year, and Jersey in December is overflowing with festive cheer. While Christmas is known for its crowds, December has a lower tourism level than most other months, and visitors to Jersey can enjoy a more relaxed version of the island. A great opportunity to soak up the local culture and rich history with a touch of yuletide spirit, Jersey in December has so much to offer that it may just become your go-to destination for a seasonal break.
Is Jersey worth visiting in December?
When it comes to the winter months, December is one of the best to visit the stunning Channel Island of Jersey. Heading into the winter months, Jersey experiences colder temperatures, cloudier forecasts and rainy spells, but the festive sparkle cast over the island makes you forget that it is a little wet and chilly. There are many days that are clear and dry with slightly higher temperatures, and as long as you wrap up warm, you can enjoy the beauty of this incredible destination in hibernation. The frost and ice add an extra shimmer to Mother Nature, and exploring the island throughout December can be a breathtaking experience.
Although there are many attractions that are now closed for winter, there are still plenty of things to do on the island throughout December. There are many events and activities taking place in December that you can only enjoy during these winter months, including seasonal offerings to welcome Christmas to the island. Days may be at their shortest, but the twinkle of festive lights makes evenings a delight, while cosy pubs and restaurants are particularly inviting after a busy day discovering what the island has to offer.
There are many destinations that are extremely popular throughout December thanks to their festive offerings. For the time being, Jersey remains one of the best-kept secrets in the British Isles for its Christmas events, and while stores, streets and events may be busy with locals, tourists are at an all-time low. This charming island is especially captivating throughout December as enchanting decor and glistening lights bring the island to life. With a diverse range of festive fairs and seasonal events, visitors to the island are spoilt for choice when it comes to unique things to do that boast a Christmastime twist.
While Jersey may be renowned for its breathtaking beauty throughout the summer months, December is an alternative month that has so much to offer. From wintry landscapes to joyous activities, December in Jersey is the month that keeps on giving.
Jersey weather in December
With winter upon us, the weather in Jersey takes a sudden turn in December. Temperatures quickly drop and bring a wintery chill to the island, with average daily temperatures of between 6°C and 10°C. Mornings and evenings are a lot cooler, but thanks to the island’s mild climate, temperatures rarely drop below zero. With its southern location between the British mainland and France, Jersey boasts temperatures that are a few degrees higher than the UK, that can provide a refreshing retreat for midwinter tourists.
In addition to temperatures dropping, December is also a month that sees a higher level of rainfall. While not considered to be the wettest month of the year, December does witness some rainy days, but there are many places on the island to retreat to when the rain does come down. Snow is also a possibility throughout this winter month, although rare. It is not overly common for Jersey to experience snow in December, but when the temperatures dip, it is always likely. However, in the month of December, snow is welcomed with open arms, transforming this scenic destination into a winter wonderland.
With the winter solstice just a few days before Christmas, December is one of the months with the shortest daylight hours. The sun rises earlier and sets late, with the island cast into darkness by late afternoon. While this can make it difficult to explore the island with limited hours of daylight, Jersey is illuminated throughout December as the island prepares for La Fête dé Noué.
Despite the cooler, wetter weather, Jersey is overflowing with charm in December. Wrap up warm and enjoy a cosy Jersey experience as you discover the wintry, seasonal side of the largest Channel Island.
Things to do in Jersey in December
Everything that remains open throughout the winter months can still be enjoyed but December in Jersey has so much more to offer with special events and seasonal activities popping up across the island.
The Battle of the Flowers Christmas Parade
Battle of the Flowers is one of the island’s biggest annual events and the parade that the celebration is famous for returns in December with a seasonal twist. An explosion of colour and floral creativity, the Battle of the Flowers Christmas Parade tours the streets of St Helier, bringing joy to all spectators.
Le Petit Train
Although Le Petit Train may be technically closed for the winter season, on select days, the train takes the journey from St Helier to St Aubin for a Christmas spectacular. Touring the 3 mile stretch of St Aubin’s Bay, the Christmas Lights Sing-a-long Tour welcomes passengers by nightfall for a twinkling journey accompanied by Christmas classics.
Genuine Jersey Simply Christmas Market
Taking over St Helier’s Royal Square, the Genuine Jersey Simply Christmas Market is the highlight of the season. Showcasing over 50 local artisans selling a range of crafts, gifts and food items, Simply Christmas is the perfect spot to sample festive treats and purchase unique Christmas presents. With hot food served daily, delight your taste buds with seasonal flavours and enjoy some Christmas entertainment with live music.
La Fête dé Noué
Celebrating the run-up to the big day, La Fête dé Noué is the island’s month-long annual event of all things Christmas. From Christmas markets and late-night shopping to carol concerts and illuminated streets, La Fête dé Noué encompasses everything festive that the island has to offer, kicking off with the Lantern Parade along the promenade.
Winter Domes at Grand Jersey
For the ultimate dining experience in December, book a winter dome at Grand Jersey. This elegant dining experience transforms the hotel’s terrace into a winter haven with indoor/outdoor private dining in your very own festive igloo. With Bluetooth speakers to pump out your personal playlist and the exquisite dishes that this AA 5-star hotel is famous for, enjoy this seasonal dining experience as a romantic dinner or a get-together with friends.
Twelve Bays of Christmas
The winter chill makes the water temperatures drop, and sea swimming is not an overly popular activity on the island in December. However, some brave souls take on the winter swimming challenge, The Twelve Bays of Christmas. Across the month of December, cold swimmers tick off twelve of the island’s most scenic bays that have all been renamed with a festive twist for the challenge. Raising money for the National Trust for Jersey and Jersey Hospice Care, the challenge is primarily aimed at locals, but during your visit to the island, why not join in the fun? Not only can you support raising awareness and funds for important causes, but you can also explore the wintry beauty of these breathtaking bays and experience the wellness benefits of cold water swimming.
Stroll up to Mount Bingham
For beautiful views of the Jersey coastline, take a short stroll up to Mount Bingham to admire the scenery of this winter landscape. An easy stroll from St Helier, Mount Bingham overlooks the breathtaking Havre de Pas as a stunning Victorian vision unfolds in front of your eyes.
Spa Days
December can be a stressful month with so much to plan and prepare for but if you are enjoying an island escape to Jersey, make it extra special by indulging in a spa day. Jersey is home to a selection of incredible spas that cater to full days or an afternoon of tranquility. There are multiple options but the Ayush Wellness Spa, Spa Sirene at the Royal Yacht and L’Horizon Spa are considered to be some of the best for ultimate luxury and relaxation.
