Liberation 80 promises to be a momentous occasion in Jersey, marking 80 years since the island's liberation from German occupation during World War II. As part of the celebrations, dance will take centre stage, bringing the community together through music, movement, and shared history.
From lively social dances to nostalgic performances reflecting the era, the Liberation 80 weekend will be filled with opportunities to embrace the joy of dance. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or simply looking to soak up the celebratory atmosphere, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
What's on?
📅 Thursday 8th May - Monday 12th May: Awesome Jersey danceXplosion Line Dance Holiday Weekend
Back in 2020, the folk behind Awesome danceXplosion were planning an event to join in the Liberation 75 celebrations, but Covid had other ideas... so it's awesome that their 2025 at the Merton Hotel event coincides with the Liberation 80 celebrations! The schedule includes a social pre-event dance party night, four social evenings, and workshops over two days.
Cost: Dinner, bed & breakfast package: 2 nights for £229 per person | add extra nights for £70 per person (booking form)
📅 Friday 9th May - daytime: Performances and social dancing at Weighbridge Place
Head to Weighbridge Place on Friday 9th May 2025 for the FREE Liberation 80 dancing performances, plus live music and social dancing as part of the main Liberation 80 celebrations!
The performing dance groups and musical acts, and timings are TBC - more information to follow!
Cost: Free!
📅 Friday 9th May - evening: Lindy Hop Jersey's Liberation 80 Evening Dance at the Pomme d'Or Hotel
After the main Liberation Day celebrations in St. Helier, Lindy Hop Jersey invite you to meet again in the evening from 18:00 for more dancing and socialising at the Pomme d'Or Hotel.
Cost: Free! (sign up here)
📅 Saturday 10th May - daytime: Lindy Hop Jersey's Liberation 80 Beaches and Bunkers - Sightseeing Round the Island
During the day on Saturday 10th May, Lindy Hop Jersey dancers will show you round some of the sights of our Island. We have amazing historical sites stretching from the neolithic period up to WWII, including German fortifications with great views over our beautiful beaches.
Cost: £40.00 per person (sign up here)
📅 Saturday 10th May - evening: Lindy Hop Jersey's Liberation 80 Dinner & Social Dance at the Best Western Royal Hotel
This special Liberation 80 dinner and social dance will be held at the Best Western Royal Hotel in David Place in St. Helier. There will be live music from the energetic Brian White Jazz Quartet.
Cost: £55.00 per person (sign up here)
📅 Saturday 10th May - evening: Jersey Ballroom Dance Association Social Dance at St. Lawrence Parish Hall
The Jersey Ballroom Dancing Association will be hosting one of their regular social dances at St. Lawrence Parish Hall from 20:00 - 22:30.
Expect a variety of music to dance to, including waltz, quickstep, rock and roll, rumba, foxtrot, and more. Sequence dances like the Catherine Waltz, Sally Ann Cha Cha, and the Party Samba are also usually featured. And don't forget to bring cash for the raffle!
Cost: £4.00 for members | £5.00 for non-members (no need to sign up in advance)
📅 Sunday 11th May: Lindy Hop Jersey's Liberation 80 Afternoon Tea Dance at St. Ouen's Parish Hall
Following the Liberation 80 evening of dinner and dancing, Lindy Hop Jersey will be hosting an afternoon tea dance, at St. Ouen's Parish Hall. Featuring the wonderful Jersey Big Band, one of Jersey's longest standing big band jazz/swing ensembles.
Cost: £15.00 per person (sign up here)
