THE SCHEDULE of a scaled-down Battle of Flowers has been revealed by the new group responsible for its management.
The Jersey Battles of Flowers (Parades) Ltd team announced that Islanders will be able to witness 20 junior-size fresh and paper-flowered floats travel through the centre of St Helier over a two-day celebration in August, in place of the traditional course with large exhibitors down Victoria Avenue.
Two parades will take place as usual, one on the afternoon of Friday 8 August and the other on evening of Saturday 9 August, inclusive of the traditional fanfare of travelling entertainers.
Parade times are yet to be confirmed.
Retailers in town will also be taking part in the extraordinary celebrations, the strategy group confirmed, as they will decorate their shop windows in collaboration with parade exhibitors.
The group said it is focused on keeping the 123-year-old event alive this year, ahead of its return to the traditional format in 2026.
They thanked the Government of Jersey and the Parish of St Helier for the opportunity to hold the one-off free parades in the alternative format.
The 2024 Battle of Flowers, appeared to be the most successful year for the long-lasting annual parade, which welcomed over 22,000 people over three days.
However, The JEP revealed that former event organisers spent at least £745,000 last year, including nearly £54,000 on security, £50,000 on marketing and £35,000 on international musical acts, including £30,000 on Eurovision runner-up Sam Ryder.
It was not the first time Battle spent big either, as figures obtained by the JEP through a Freedom of Information request showed the former association made a loss of £80,773 in 2023 despite a £150,000 government grant. This grant almost doubled to £270,000 for the 2024 event.
The financial troubles culminated in the scrapping of the full parade and the creation of a new “strategy group” to replace the association’s board, which was elected at an extraordinary meeting of exhibitors and members earlier this year.
In a statement announcing the 2025 plans, the strategy group – which is led by Martyn Maguire – said discussions were already underway for the return of the traditional celebrations in 2026.
“We are a new team, brimming with enthusiasm for the future of the Battle of Flowers,”
a spokesperson said.
“This August is about celebrating our incredible community and the enduring spirit of this unique festival and keeping it alive,” they added.
Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel previously said that around £220,000 would still be available if organisers wished to proceed with an alternative display in 2025.
The spokesperson continued: “We’re focused firmly on the road ahead, revitalising the event, ensuring its sustainability, and creating even more magical moments for Jersey and our visitors.”
