Hastings Bonfire Night: Your Ultimate Guide for Saturday 15 October 2022
Don’t miss out on Hastings’ legendary Bonfire Night! Programmes are flying off the shelves this year, so grab yours fast if you can. Here’s everything you need to know for a cracking day of bonfire madness.
Kids’ Guy Making & Early Events
- 9:30am: Kids under 16 compete to create the best Guy at Stade Hall. Winners get a prime spot on the bonfire! Judging takes place at 2pm.
- 5pm: Junior Members march from the Stade along the promenade, greeted by a spectacular pyrotechnic salute around 5:30pm at the fire site.
Evening Bonfire Spectacle Kicks Off
- 6:30pm: Bonfire societies, drummers, and dance bands assemble by the White Rock Hotel on the promenade. Spot your society by the lamppost lettering. Toilets and drinks available inside the hotel.
- 7pm: The Beacon is lit. Hastings runners bring torches to the meeting point.
- 7:10pm: The America Ground Ceremony takes place.
- 7:20pm: Bonfire procession sets off as runners bring torches from the East Hill beacon. Expect firecrackers and a thunderous welcome near Pelham Crescent car park.
Bonfire, Fireworks & Final Details
- 9pm (approx): Once the procession and fire carts are inside the site, bonfire prayers are shouted before the main bonfire is lit by a dignitary. Torches are thrown in to set it ablaze.
- 9:15pm (approx): Fireworks and effigy display light up the sky.
- 9:50pm: The show aims to finish early for last train travellers. But be warned: expect rail disruptions due to engineering works – check local notices before travelling.
- 11pm: Road closures end.
Road Closures & Travel Tips
Road closures start around 6pm and reopen between 10:30pm and 11pm. Timings may change for safety reasons in consultation with local police, so plan your journey accordingly.
