The Corn Riots Festival 2022, which begins today (Friday 30 September) is Jersey’s annual celebration of our cultural and historical identity through live music and arts.
Last year, the inaugural festival marked the 250th anniversary of the major legislative reform that transformed society in Jersey as a result of the Corn Riots. This year, the celebration returns, with a larger arena, more stalls, and greater community involvement.
The festival will run until Sunday 2 October, with live acts across three stages, and stalls, stands and exhibitions in the Royal Square, Town Church, Broad Street, Charing Cross and Parade Gardens.
The Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Deputy Kirsten Morel, said: “I believe that the Corn Riots Festival is becoming established as a celebration of Jersey’s modern cultural identity. It is an opportunity for the different parts of our community to come together and to enjoy both the modern multicultural society that we are, and our links to the Jèrriais language and Normandy.
“Last year was a fantastic start, this year, we have increased the educational elements. with children getting involved in lessons which have helped them to get a greater understanding of Jersey’s history and culture, and I hope that continues to develop.”
The riots, which prompted reforms in Jersey’s government, took place on 28 September 1769 and involved hundreds of Islanders protesting against landowners exporting wheat from Jersey, driving up domestic prices. The march that protesters took from Trinity Church to the Royal Square will again be recreated, with hundreds of Islanders expected to follow the original route on Saturday from 1pm.
Government of Jersey News Release