Thousands of people are expected to attend Lewes Bonfire Night this evening, as the town’s six bonfire societies hold their famous processions, marking one of the most spectacular Guy Fawkes celebrations in the UK. Known for its grand effigies, torch-lit processions, and historical significance, this event draws huge crowds to the narrow streets of Lewes in East Sussex.
The Processions
Each year, Lewes hosts an extraordinary display of tradition, culture, and history, with six bonfire societies parading through the town. These societies—each associated with a particular district of Lewes—have been holding their processions for over a century. Lewes Borough Bonfire Society and Cliffe Bonfire Society, both founded in 1853, are two of the oldest societies, but the event itself dates back even further, with roots stretching into the 19th century.
The processions are known for their large, burning effigies, which have historically featured prominent political figures. Previous effigies include former UK Prime Ministers Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson, as well as US President Joe Biden. This year’s effigies, which remain a closely guarded secret, are expected to include politicians and celebrities, adding an element of surprise to the event.
Historical Significance
While the bonfire tradition is famously linked to Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, Lewes Bonfire Night also pays tribute to the 17 Protestant martyrs burned at the stake in the town during the reign of Mary I in the 1500s. The town’s commemorations are unique for blending these historical events, particularly the martyrs’ cross and burning barrels, into their celebrations. The 17 burning crosses carried by the bonfire societies represent these martyrs and add an additional layer of historical depth to the night’s proceedings.
Safety Concerns
Given the large crowds expected, Sussex Police is advising non-locals to stay away from the event, highlighting the risk of crowd crushing in Lewes’s narrow, winding streets. Chief Superintendent Howard Hodges emphasized the challenges of managing such a busy, complex event, saying: “The celebrations are always busy, challenging, and complex. There are inherent risks, and that’s why the police, ambulance, and fire services work really closely to ensure people can attend safely.”
A Local Tradition
The bonfire societies are an integral part of the event, and each is associated with a local pub, which serves as their headquarters. These societies work tirelessly to ensure the success of the celebration, and their efforts are seen in the intricately created effigies, burning barrels, and the carefully planned routes for the processions.
Spectators’ Experience
For those attending, the event offers an unforgettable experience—flames, processions of torchbearers, and the excitement of seeing huge, burning effigies being paraded through the streets, all set against the backdrop of a town steeped in history. The secrecy around the effigies only adds to the thrill, with revelers eagerly awaiting the big reveal on the night itself.
Conclusion
Lewes Bonfire Night is more than just a Guy Fawkes celebration; it’s a vibrant, centuries-old event that honors the town’s history and culture while providing a platform for contemporary commentary through its effigies of politicians and celebrities. It’s a night that blends tradition, spectacle, and sometimes a little bit of controversy, making it one of the most unique and celebrated events in the UK. However, for those planning to attend, it’s important to heed the safety warnings and be prepared for the large crowds and complex logistics involved in such a major event.