Burning the Clocks  Parade:

Participants of the parade meet at the Corn Exchange (one of the venues of the Brighton Dome) at 5pm. From here the lanterns are checked by officials to make sure the parade runs safely and smoothly. With lanterns lit the spectacle begins at around 6:30pm, as the crowd of around 2,000 people representing all ages make their way down New Road.

The streets are lined with eager spectators who cheer as the parade of light winds its way through the streets and down to the shorefront. In total some 20,000 spectators brave the cold to witness this motley procession of white shapes illuminating the darkness of the longest night for the year. At approximately 7:15pm the last group of the parade arrives at the beach to the beating of drums and the fire show springs to action.

Lantern Burning and Fireworks Display:

The second phase of the festival shares some similarities with the symbolic burning of art at the iconic Burning Man festival held in the Nevada desert. One by one people pass their handmade, combustible lanterns into a flaming bonfire. The burning lanterns carry the hopes and dreams of the participant for the year to come. As the music builds the larger lanterns are ignited and the crowd roars with excitement. The evening ends at around 8pm with a crescendo of fireworks exploding over the coastline.

For the best vantage point, spectators are recommended to watch from the elevated Madeira Drive. Temporary fencing prevents access to the lower levels purely for safety purposes.

Tips:

• Make a lantern. What better way to get involved then to create your own lantern and participate in the event. It is very important to note that only approved lanterns will be allowed on the beach for safety reasons. You will need to purchase an official lantern kit in advance from one of these selected outlets.

• Walk in the parade. The parade is half the fun of the event and free for anyone to participate. The only requirement to participate in the parade is that you purchase an official lantern kit. The kit contains a parade wristband.

• Give a donation. The event relies heavily on the generosity of the public and local businesses. If you would like to keep this event free for everyone to enjoy you can make a donation here.

• Wear something warm.

   The nights can get quite cold in Brighton over winter. The ocean breeze can drop temperatures quickly so make sure to wear a scarf and keep your head covered.