Hailsham’s Annual Bonfire Celebrations Return This Saturday

The countdown is almost over, with Hailsham’s annual Bonfire celebrations taking place this Saturday [17 October], and residents and visitors are being encouraged to head into the town and experience one of the area’s biggest community events of the year.

Organised by Hailsham Bonfire Society, the evening will bring together thousands of people for a traditional torch-lit procession through the town, accompanied by marching bands, before continuing to Western Road Recreation Ground for the ceremonial bonfire and spectacular firework display.

This year’s celebrations are particularly significant as they mark the 21st anniversary of the reformation of Hailsham Bonfire Society in 2005. The Society has promised another memorable evening, including what will be the largest effigy ever displayed at the Western Road Recreation Ground.

The procession is expected to attract large crowds along the town centre route, with spectators encouraged to arrive early and find a suitable viewing position. Following the procession, crowds will gather at Western Road Recreation Ground, where the Traditional Cry will signal the start of the Grand Firework Display.

Hailsham will also welcome five visiting bonfire societies from Lewes this year, strengthening the longstanding links between bonfire communities across Sussex and adding to the spectacle and atmosphere of the evening.

The event is not only a celebration of tradition, but also an important community occasion, bringing together families, local groups, visitors and volunteers for an evening that forms a significant part of Hailsham’s heritage.

Money raised through street collections during the evening will be donated to this year’s nominated charities, Out of the Blue and Parkinson’s UK Hailsham Branch.

Town Mayor Cllr Chris Bryant, who also serves as Captain of the War Memorial for Hailsham Bonfire Society, said: “With Bonfire just days away, there is a real sense of anticipation across Hailsham. It is an event that brings people together in a way few other occasions do, and it is fantastic to see generations of residents and visitors continuing to support this longstanding tradition.”

“I would encourage everyone who is planning to attend to come along, enjoy the procession and the atmosphere, and support the charities being collected for on the night. Above all, I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable evening.”

Town Councillor Dave Chapman, Honorary Vice President of Hailsham Bonfire Society, said: “The final preparations are now underway and Saturday promises to be a fantastic evening for Hailsham. The scale of the event and the number of people who come to watch demonstrate just how important Bonfire remains to the town.”

“A huge amount of work takes place behind the scenes to make the procession and celebrations possible, and I would like to recognise the Society, its volunteers and everyone else involved. I hope residents and visitors will turn out in large numbers and enjoy what promises to be a spectacular night.”

Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of Hailsham Town Council’s Communities Committee, said: “Hailsham Bonfire is a wonderful example of community tradition being passed from one generation to the next. It brings together people from across the town and beyond and creates an atmosphere that is unique to Hailsham.”

“With visiting societies joining us from Lewes, local charities benefiting from collections and thousands of people expected to attend, Saturday will be a significant evening for the town. I would encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the celebrations and play their part in supporting this important community tradition.”

Road closures and traffic restrictions will be in place across Hailsham town centre during the procession. Anyone travelling to the event is advised to allow plenty of time for their journey and expect busy conditions, particularly around the town centre and procession route.