CHRISTMAS officially starts this weekend with the first event of the annual Fête dé Noué.

Around the Island local artists will open their studios for visitors to see their creations and perhaps buy a unique gift for the festive season.

The Jersey Tourism Fête dé Noué plays a key part in the Christmas celebrations and there is a host of events and activities running from this weekend through to 29 December, including walks, parades, performances, workshops and, of course, shopping opportunities. The full programme can be found at the www.jersey.com/ christmas website.

However, St Helier’s Christmas lights are switched on at the end of this month and many people consider that event as the proper launch of La Fête dé Noué. It will take place on Thursday 27 November and a pipe band will parade from West’s Centre to the Royal Square, where the Constable of St Helier, Simon Crowcroft, will do the official honours.

• Picture: St Helier will again resound to a range of events over the Christimas season