Sam Ryder to headline Battle of Flowers 2024

Sam Ryder will take to the stage at this year's Battle of Flowers.

The 'Space Man' singer represented the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest, where he placed second. 

Sam will perform a family-friendly concert at the finale of the Grand Day Parade, which he is also taking part in. 

Battle of Flowers Chairman Russell Labey says he's excited to welcome the Brit award nominee - who was last here for Weekender 2022 - back to the island: 

"He's perfect for us. He has a very broad appeal. He's cool, but he's also very family-friendly. 

"He's got an enormous following of 40 million people on his social media platforms. I think the island will really embrace him and want to see him."

The iconic community festival is returning 9-11 August and promises more music, more floats and more fun. 

All 12 parishes will be represented in this summer's parades for the first time in a generation. 

Battle lines are already being drawn, with St Martin and St John teaming up with Trinity to form the Northern Alliance and St Mary and St Ouen joining forces after a long absence. 

Russell Labey thinks this year will be one to remember: 

"12 parishes will be competing, which means everybody will have a sense of ownership and will have a float to cheer on. 

"Everyone can now get involved in preparing their float for battle."

Also performing at this year's Battle of Flowers are Ruby Rouge, DJ Mel, The Les Quennevais School Steel Drum Band, the Bloco Fogo Samba Band. 

Flagz, the Notting Hill Carnival Mas Band, is also back by popular demand. 

They'll be holding dance workshops in the lead up the show. 

An 'internationally acclaimed musical artist' will also perform in Lower Park on August 11. 

We don't yet know who this is, but Russell tells us this will be an exciting surprise for islanders: 

"We just can't release the name of that person yet. But what can I tell you? They're slight retro I would say, crossover into musical theatre also, but a massive pop star of his era."

This year, tickets to see the currently unknown artist in Lower Park will be sold separately from the Battle parades. 

Islanders are being asked to take part in the parade - with or without a float. 

More information on how to join in can be found on the Battle of the Flowers website.