The Battle of Flowers Parade has been cancelled this year due to “insurmountable” financial challenges, organisers have confirmed.
The event could be replaced by “alternative floral-based projects”.
In a statement, the Battle of Flowers Association said its Strategy Group had “engaged in intensive discussions with Government Ministers and officials”.
“Despite these efforts, the financial and corporate governance challenges facing the Battle organisation, stemming from the actions of the current board of directors and staff, have proven insurmountable,” the statement said.
Battle of Flowers has been facing financial struggles for years – with its Government grant increasing from £84k in 2020 to £270k for last year’s event, which featured UK music stars Sam Ryder and Marti Pellow.
The organisation had been struggling to keep the event afloat financially, and had engaged in a series of meetings and set up a working group to try and save the event.
“Keep the spirit of Battle alive”
The Battle Strategy Group thanked the Government for its support and said Ministers had suggested “alternative floral-based projects, which will be financially supported, to help maintain interest and engagement among teams for this year”.
Other ideas include celebrations on the traditional Battle of Flowers date, as well as Halloween and Christmas events.
The group added: “These initiatives aim to keep the spirit of Battle alive and provide opportunities for exhibitors and the community to come together.”
An Extraordinary Meeting of Exhibitors of Members is due to be held on Tuesday 18 March at Grouville Parish Hall.
Battle of Flowers Chairman Russell Labey said he hopes that event will “come back stronger in 2026”.
He explained: “Whilst it’s disappointing that the Battle of Flowers will not go ahead this year it is sensible to take the time to secure a lasting future for the event.
“The parade in 2024 with twelve parish participation brought even more communities together in the creative endeavour of float-building and a fuller event with more entertainment proved a big hit with audiences.
“A safe and successful event of this scale must be matched with the people, professionals and resources required. The task now is to put those in place and come back stronger in 2026.”
“A cherished part of Jersey’s heritage”
In a statement this afternoon, Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel said Ministers were “working with the Battle to secure its long-term future”.
The full statement said: “The Battle of Flowers is a cherished part of Jersey’s heritage, and we want to find the right way forward for the event.
“Ministers and officers have worked closely with organisers to help them find a solution for this year.
“We understand the Battle’s deep significance for many islanders, and we are working with the Battle to secure its long-term future.”
“I’m sure somehow a new Battle will emerge”
Co-CEO of the Jersey Hospitality Association Marcus Calvani said the cancellation was “very sad news”.
“My thoughts are with all those that enjoy this event so much, year after year,” he said.
In a Facebook post, he called for hope for the future event, saying: “I’m sure it’s not the end, I’m sure somehow a new Battle will emerge.
“One that delivers for our community in a sustainable way for many more years.”
“There’re lots of creative and passionate people out there that if they can collaborate to find a solution, I’m sure something great will come out of it.
“Maybe not the same, maybe we will all have to accept change, but there are parades and successful celebrations all around the world, there’s no reason why our incredible island can’t find its own niche for one as well.”
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