Channel Christmas

Jersey's Christmas parade will go ahead this year.

The news was confirmed last night to those involved in this year's Battle of Flowers and Moonlight Parade.

It follows doubt over whether there was funding to put on the show, which sees the illuminated floats tour through St Helier each December.

The event, which attracts hundreds of spectators who line the route, is scheduled for Sunday 13 December.

Christmas really kicks off in the Channel Islands today, with festive markets popping up and lights twinkling at night.

In Jersey, a range of Christmas markets will be running from today across the weekend.

In Guernsey, late night shopping begins tonight and Christmas lights are turned on at The Bridge tomorrow evening.

Here are some of the events going on:

JERSEY

Spirit of Christmas Market 04/12/2014 - 07/12/2014 Thurs - Sun Browse beautifully decorated wooden chalets where local artisans and craft workers will be selling gorgeous handmade gifts and delightful decorations. There'll be street theatre and music. Trading hours: Thursday 10:00 - 21:00, Friday and Saturday 10:00 - 18:00, Sunday 10:00 - 20:00.

Lé Marchi Nouormand Norman French Market 04/12/2014 - 07/12/2014 Thurs - Sun As part of La Fête dé Noué, breathe in the sights and smells of Normandy with everything from home made crêpes and biscuits to cônfit and cider.

Spirit of Christmas Market 04/12/2014 - 07/12/2014 Thurs - Sun Browse beautifully decorated wooden chalets where local artisans and craft workers will be selling gorgeous handmade gifts and delightful decorations. There'll be street theatre and music too, so be sure to discover some Christmas magic with a visit to this charming market. Trading hours are: Thursday 10:00 - 21:00, Friday and Saturday 10:00 - 18:00, Sunday 10:00 - 20:00.

La Fête dé Noué 04/12/2014 - 07/12/2014 Thurs - Sun La Fête dé Noué, which translates from the local Jersey Norman-French language as Christmas Festival, animates the Island with a programme of activities.

Advent Christmas Market 04/12/2014 - 07/12/2014 Thurs - Sun Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas...especially in St Heliers historic Royal Square! Beneath the twinkling lights of the chestnut trees.

GUERNSEY

The Bridge Lights Switch On Fri 5 December: Christmas lights switch on - The Bridge, St Sampsons Switch on time is 4:30-5pm.
Further information, please contact the Guernsey Information Centre on +44 (0) 1481 723552

Late Night Shopping Thursdays: 4th, 11th, 18th December, St Peter Port. Shops open until 9pm. Further information, please contact the Guernsey Information Centre on +44 (0) 1481 723552

As we head into the festive period, here's some of our Christmas highlights.

ITV News asked these islanders in St Helier if they were in the mood for Christmas.

Santa is coming to Sark on Friday 12th December. Father Christmas will take part in the big switch on at 4:30pm on the Avenue.