Jersey Lilies' May Day 2025: dancing across the Island.
The Jersey Lilies are set to mark the arrival of spring with their traditional May Day celebration, embarking on their annual 12 Parish Programme. On Thursday 1st May 2025, the group will perform in each of Jersey's twelve parishes, continuing a cherished tradition that spans decades. This year's theme, "Tour des Tours," creatively incorporates the Island's historic towers into their dance itinerary.
The day's schedule is as follows:
- 07:15 - St. Clement: Le Hocq Tower
- 08:00 - Grouville: La Rocque Harbour, overlooking Seymour Tower
- 08:45 - St. Martin: Near the The Breakwater Cafe, nodding to St Catherine's Tower
- 10:15 - St. Saviour: JADC car park, with a view towards the site of Prince's Tower at La Hougue Bie
- 11:00 - Trinity: Bouley Bay, facing Fort Leicester
- 11:45 - St. John: In front of the Parish Hall
- 13:00 - St. Ouen: Lewis Tower, opposite Jersey Pearl
- 13:30 - Lunch break
- 15:00 - St. Peter: The Windmill/Catherine Best
- 15:45 - St. Mary: In front of the rectory, overlooking the church
- 17:00 - St. Lawrence: In front of the Parish Hall
- 17:45 - St. Helier: First Tower, on the seaward side
- 18:30 - St. Brelade: Portelet Inn, overlooking Janvrin's Tomb
The Jersey Lilies are committed to performing in all weather conditions, embodying the resilient spirit of Morris dancing
Join the Celebration
Residents and visitors are encouraged to witness the Jersey Lilies as they bring vibrant energy and tradition to each parish. Whether you're an early riser catching the first performance at Le Hocq Tower or joining the final dance at Portelet Inn, the May Day tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Morris dancing across Jersey.
Lynne Cook, a member of Jersey Lilies said: "In Morris circles, it is traditional on May Day to dance, either at sunrise or some unusual place. For many years the Jersey Lilies have made a point of dancing in each and all of the parishes, and generally with a theme to the day out so we are economical with interpreting the time of our sunrise start. Dancing in all twelve parishes makes a long day, but is huge fun even with tired feet!"
About the Jersey Lilies
Established in 1978, the Jersey Lilies have been dedicated to preserving and promoting the English tradition of Morris dancing in Jersey. Originally an all-female group, they became a mixed side in late 2024, welcoming dancers of all genders. The group practices throughout the winter season on Wednesday evenings at Samares School and performs across the island during the summer months.
For more information and updates, visit the Jersey Lilies' official website.
