EAST SUSSEX BONFIRE SOCIETIES

Just when you thought that it was safe to come outside again, we announce another couple of forthcoming firework events which will tickle your fancy if you live in the East Sussex region.

As some of you may be aware, the area has a close connection with Bonfire night following the death of a number of the protestant martyrs in the town square who were killed for their faith by the then Queen Mary. Although the tradition of the Sussex Bonfire societies goes back to before Guy Fawkes and Robert Catesby’s era, the majority of them were created to celebrate the lives of the Marian Martyrs and around the late 18th and early 19th centuries, a great many Bonfire Societies were formed to celebrate their community and the Church of England faith.

Most of the societies today have continued to work all year around to ensure that the community has something to brighten up those cold November evenings just before Christmas to get rid of the detritus that has been collected throughout the year and of course to entertain young and old in a controlled environment.

Of course, some of the Bonfire Societies are adult only but for the majority, it is about children and the youth of today having something interesting, historical and entertaining to do.

Most of the events start with a fancy dress competition before they hold a torch-lit march through the town with band accompaniment.

The evening ends with a grand finale fireworks display and prayers of thanks for those who have fallen in service of the defence of this country.

Barcombe Bonfire Night – Saturday 22 November 2014

Torchlit processions with visiting societies marching bands bonfire and fireworks display – invite only

Hawkhurst Gang Bonfire Night – Saturday 22 November 2014

Torchlit Processions with Visiting Societies, Marching Bands, Bonfire and Firework Display.

This is a small traditional village bonfire society orientated event.

Rottingdean Smugglers – Saturday 6 December 2014

4.00pm Start Approx. Bonfire Celebrations and Christmas Shopping Night Combined with Torchlit Processions, Marching Bands, Bonfire and Firework Display.

This is a small traditional village bonfire society orientated event including a ‘Little Smugglers’