Hastings Bonfire Night 2022: Your Ultimate Guide for Saturday 15th October
Don’t miss out on the biggest fire night of the year! Programmes are flying off the shelves, so grab yours early if you can. Here’s the lowdown on what’s happening and when.
Key Timings You Need to Know
- 9:30am: Kids under 16 get creative with the Children’s Guy Making Competition at Stade Hall. Winners get a prime spot on the bonfire! Judging happens at 2pm.
- 5pm (approx): Junior Members’ procession heads west along the promenade, greeted by a spectacular pyrotechnic salute at the fire site around 5:30pm.
- 6:30pm: Bonfire societies, drummers, and dance bands gather near White Rock Hotel. Look for lamppost signs to find your society’s spot. Loos and beers available inside.
- 7pm: The beacon is lit – bring your torches and join the assembly!
- 7:10pm: The famous America Ground Ceremony kicks off.
- 7:20pm: The bonfire procession starts, led by runners carrying lit torches from the East Hill beacon. Expect firecrackers along Robertson Street and a loud mascléta near Pelham Crescent car park to welcome everyone back to the fire site.
- 9pm (approx): Once the procession and fire carts are in place, bonfire prayers are shouted before the dignitary lights the bonfire and throws in torches.
- 9:15pm: Fireworks and the epic effigy display explode onto the scene.
- 9:50pm: The show winds down to help visitors catch the last trains. Note: expect 1 on the 15th, so plan your journey carefully.
- 11pm: Road closures end and the town returns to normal.
Road Closures & Safety Info
Roads close around 6pm and reopen between 10:30pm and 11pm. Timings may change depending on safety conditions and police advice, so stay alert and follow instructions.
This year’s Hastings Bonfire Night promises fireworks, firecrackers, drama, and one hell of a party. Get ready to join thousands soaking up the spectacle on the South Coast!
