This year, fireworks night is on a Sunday, so lots of the celebrations of the anniversary of Guy Fawkes’ screwing up his gunpowder plot to explode parliament are on the Saturday. You know, to make things more sociable. You’ll find plenty of displays to shake a sparkler at right here (although the Brighton Racecourse display sadly doesn’t seem to be happening any more). Fingers crossed the rain and wind stays away this year!
The Hove one
The annual display at Sussex County Cricket is always a good option for a spectacular display with live music and entertainment to distract from the chill in the air. There are still tickets available for this year’s event, but don’t hang around as despite the 9,000 capacity, they tend to sell out. You need to buy them in advance, too, they don’t sell tickets on the door. Failing that, find yourself a friend with a flat overlooking the cricket ground. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but proceeds go towards supporting the Sussex Cricket Foundation and Martlets’ Shaun The Sheep art trail.
Saturday 4th November, gates and pre-show entertainment from 5.30pm for 7.30pm display; £7.50 kids over 3 and under 16, £12.50 adults
County Ground, Eaton Rd, Hove BN3 3AN
sussexcricket.co.uk
The one with a view
You’ll have a great view of the cricket ground display from Dyke Road Park Cafe. They recommend getting there for 6.30pm to grab yourself a spot before the fireworks kick off at 7.30pm. They’ll also be selling food, mulled wine and other warming drinks in the rather likely event you’ll need to distract yourself from how cold it is.
Saturday 4th November; from 6pm; free
Tea Chalet, Dyke Road, Brighton BN3 6EH
The Preston Park one – CANCELLED DUE TO BAD WEATHER
Always one of our favourite displays, the popular child-friendly fun at Preston Park is back this year after high winds meant the 2022 edition got cancelled at the last minute. As usual, there’s a funfair and plenty of hot food and drink to keep everyone occupied while waiting for the big event to kick off at 8pm. If you’re not a fan of crowds, this might not be the one for you, though, as around 10,000 people are expected to attend.
Wednesday 1st November, from 4.00pm, fireworks start at 8.00pm; free
Preston Park, Preston Road, Brighton BN1 6SD
The Worthing one
Ok, it’s not in Brighton, but it’s only a 20-minute train ride away and this display is always one of the south coast’s best – and it’s free. The fireworks are launched from the end of the pier (which is closed to everyone else for safety) and you can see the display all along Worthing promenade and beach. There will also be a funfair on the promenade plus plenty of street food stalls. Worthing Lions – who organise it with the town centre – will be collecting for charity, so if you spot a bucket, chuck some change in or donate here. If you’re heading over, make a day of it with the help of our guide to Brighton’s coastal little sis.
Sunday 5th November; fireworks start at 6.45pm; free
Worthing Pier, Marine Parade, Worthing BN11 3PX
The Lewes one
Lewes Bonfire Celebrations is the biggest 5th November festival in the world (and possibly the only proper one). As ever, the town is expected to be jam-packed full of locals and visitors for the incredible carnival. There are numerous processions during the celebrations – featuring epic costumes, flaming torches and huge topical tableaux – kicking off around 5pm with the last one dying down about 1am. So there’s plenty to see, not least the incredible firework displays at this year’s six different bonfire society sites throughout the town; these start from 8.30pm to 9.45pm. And it all goes ahead whatever the weather, so wrap up warm!
Be warned, though, that if you haven’t got your tickets sorted for one of the society sites, you won’t get in (tickets for most are available through the Tourist Information Centre, more info here, but you can buy passes to the sites of the two oldest societies: Cliffe Bonfire Society (this will be closed due to bad weather now) and Lewes Borough Bonfire Society online here and here). Many pubs are ticketed entry only too and you can expect it to be absolutely heaving – it’s not for the faint of heart. But don’t worry if you don’t make it this year, you can still watch it unfold from afar on a live stream.
If you do head over ticketless, our top tip is to head up Chapel Hill towards the golf course. It’s a bit of a trek but you’ll have a mighty fine view across the town and a spectacular view of the displays. There’s generally a good atmosphere up there too, plus it’s a lot less hectic and you’re way less likely to encounter flying fireworks. If you’re travelling into Lewes, unless you’re heading in very early (roads in and out close at 4.45pm), you’re better off using public transport (although trains stop at 5pm and buses won’t go all the way into town), or take the scenic route and walk over the Downs. It will take you a couple of hours but it’s a beautiful stroll. Or check out the bike train below. As always, stay safe and bring some cash for the charity boxes.
Saturday 4th November, parades 5.00pm – 1.00am; firework ticket prices vary
Head to Lewes High Street, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 2LU
lewesbonfirecelebrations.com
The one for cyclists
Fancy making the journey to Lewes as much of an event as the bonfire night itself? Then you need the Bonfire Bike Train. Organised by Brighton Bike Hub, the mass cycle ride happens every year and takes the seven-mile trip from Brighton to Lewes at a gentle pace that’s suitable for all riders. Experienced stewards escort the group and there’s music to keep you motivated if the weather’s a bit miserable. You can either start with the whole group at The Level or join along the way – the troupe are expected to get to Lewes at about 6pm and leave to come back at midnight from Lewes Prison. Bike lights are an absolute must!
Saturday 4th November; meet at 4.30pm for a 5pm start at The Level (43 Ditchling Road), 5.20pm at Moulescoombe Library, 5.30pm at Falmer House at the University of Sussex; return ride from Lewes Prison leaves at midnight and takes about an hour; free
Brighton Bike Train
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