Hastings Bonfire Night 2025 will light up East Sussex on Saturday 18 October with a torchlit procession, beach bonfire, and fireworks finale—marking the 30th anniversary of the Hastings Borough Bonfire Society.
🎆 A Fiery Tradition Returns to Hastings
Hastings Bonfire Night 2025 promises to be one of the most spectacular community events in East Sussex this autumn. Organised by the Hastings Borough Bonfire Society (HBBS), this year’s celebration marks three decades of fiery festivities, drawing thousands of spectators to the historic seaside town for a night of tradition, pageantry, and pyrotechnics.
🕯️ Procession Highlights
The evening’s main event is the torchlit procession, which begins at 7:15pm from the White Rock area on the seafront. The route winds through Robertson Street for the ceremonial America Ground Proclamation, then loops through the Old Town via Harold Place, All Saints Street, and the High Street before returning to the fire site opposite Pelham Crescent.
Expect a vibrant mix of bonfire societies from across Sussex, drumming groups, and dance bands, all dressed in traditional garb and carrying flaming torches. As the procession passes the fire site around 7:45pm, a dramatic pyrotechnic display will signal the final leg of the march.
🔥 Bonfire & Fireworks
The bonfire itself will be lit at approximately 9:00pm, following a short prayer and ceremonial torch-throwing led by the Mayor of Hastings. Around 9:15pm, the sky will erupt with a dazzling fireworks display, orchestrated by Renegade Pyrotechnics. The timing may vary depending on weather and crowd conditions, so attendees are advised to arrive early and stay alert.
🎭 Daytime Activities
The festivities begin well before sunset. From 9:30am, children under 16 can enter the Guy-making competition at Stade Hall, with judging by the Mayor at 2:00pm. The winning Guy will take pride of place atop the evening bonfire.
Throughout the afternoon, visitors can donate to the event and pick up programmes from volunteers in striped jumpers around the Old Town. Road closures begin from 5:00pm, with a Junior Members’ procession heading westward from the Stade to the fire site by 6:00pm.
🚆 Travel Advisory
Due to planned engineering works, no trains will run between Bexhill, Hastings, Ore, and Ashford International on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 October. Visitors are encouraged to plan alternative transport and allow extra time for travel.
🎉 Community Spirit & Safety
The HBBS reminds attendees to dress warmly, stay safe near open flames, and respect marshals and road closures. The event is free to attend, but donations are welcome to support future celebrations.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, Hastings Bonfire Night 2025 offers a thrilling blend of history, spectacle, and community pride. Wrap up warm, grab a torch, and join the procession!