The tradition of hundreds of vehicles winding around the island has taken many forms since its inception, and organisers have said that the 80th Liberation Day Cavalcade will be the “biggest yet,” with more than 250 vehicles expected to take part.
An enhanced Cavalcade is held in Guernsey every five years, but the pandemic hindered traditional celebrations on the 75th Liberation anniversary in 2020, meaning the larger parade has not been seen passing through St Peter Port since 2015.
To make 2025’s event the “biggest yet,” organisers are now encouraging the public to get involved by building floats, decorating bikes and wheelchairs, or joining as a pedestrian.
Groups of parishes, charities, organisations, or families and friends can enter, and grants ranging from £750 to £1,500 are available depending on the size of the float.
Denise Fawcett, Cavalcade Floats Co-ordinator, said: “The Cavalcade is a highlight of the Liberation Day celebrations, and the creativity and effort that go into the floats and creating bike and pedestrian entries are what make it truly special.
“We’re always thrilled to welcome both new and returning participants to showcase their designs and help us create a spectacular event for everyone to enjoy.
“If anyone wants to get involved but doesn’t know where to start, we can help match people up with vehicles and give advice on what does and doesn’t work.”
Over ten thousand people are expected to line the streets of St Peter Port next May.
Deputy Sue Aldwell, Committee for Education, Sport and Culture, added: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome the floats and community participation back to the Cavalcade.
“Liberation Day is a day for the whole community, and I’d love to see as many people as possible get involved, either behind the scenes making and decorating a float or on the day waving their flags or walking as part of the parade.”
Many local charities are due to take part, including Bowel Cancer Guernsey.
The cavalcade will take a shorter route than has been traditional.
It will start with the military vehicles at the Vaugrat campsite and will be joined by the vintage cars and tractors at Pembroke and the floats, bikes and pedestrians at Salerie Corner.
The Cavalcade will end with static displays of all the vehicles and floats from 4pm, allowing islanders to take a closer look and speak to the owners.
GET INVOLVED
For more information and to make an entry to the Cavalcade, visit the Liberation Day website here.
Entries close at the end of March.
Pictured top: A packed seafront on Liberation Day. (Chris George)