Events advice for mourning period

Friday 09 September 2022

Official advice has been issued regarding events planned to be held over the period of National Mourning following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

A number of events have already been either cancelled or postponed following her death on Thursday 8 September.

There is no official request for any events to be cancelled or postponed and it is left to the "discretion of individual organisations".

The States of Guernsey's website holds guidance for event organisers, as well as for businesses and corporate organisations.

"There is no obligation to cancel or postpone events and sporting fixtures, or close entertainment venues. This is at the discretion of individual organisations.

"As a mark of respect, organisations might wish to consider cancelling or postponing events or closing venues on the day of the State Funeral.

"If appropriate, some locations open to the public (including hospitality businesses and places of worship) may wish to show the live broadcast of the State Funeral."

The advice covers all formal events, entertainment, sporting fixtures and business and corporate organisations:  

• There is no obligation to cancel or postpone events and sporting fixtures, or close entertainment venues during the National Mourning period. This is at the discretion of individual organisations.
• As a mark of respect, organisations might wish to consider cancelling or postponing events or closing venues on the day of the State Funeral. They are, however, under no obligation to do so and this is at the discretion of individual organisations.
• If sporting fixtures or events are planned for the day of the State Funeral, organisations may want to adjust the event timings so that they do not clash with the timings of the funeral service and associated processions.
• As a mark of respect, and in keeping with the tone of National Mourning, organisers may wish to hold a one-minute silence and/or play the National Anthem at the start of events or sporting fixtures, and players may wish to wear black armbands.

Further advice will be provided in due course regarding information for closing of businesses and corporations.