Guide to Major Bonfire Night Events and Firework Displays Across South-East England for 2026

Travellers visiting south-east England in late autumn can experience traditional Bonfire Night events and firework displays located outside London. Several towns and historic sites hold annual celebrations featuring torchlit processions, bonfires, and large effigies.

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Hastings Bonfire Night

Taking place on 17 October 2026 in East Sussex, the Hastings event includes a children's Guy-making competition in the morning, alongside daytime events and market stalls in the town centre. Organised by the Hastings Borough Bonfire Society, the celebration features a torchlit procession after dark, leading to a bonfire and firework display on the beach complete with a celebrity effigy. Attendees are encouraged to learn the Bonfire Chant beforehand.

Lewes Bonfire Night

Held annually on 5 November, Lewes in East Sussex hosts a large-scale event consisting of six separate local societies whose routes merge into a single parade through the town. Participants carry 17 burning crosses representing the Lewes Martyrs and lay a wreath at the war memorial. The gathering attracts around 80,000 spectators. Visitors should note that no trains stop at Lewes during the event due to overcrowding concerns, and there is no vehicle parking in the town centre.

Edenbridge Bonfire and Fireworks

Scheduled for 7 November 2026 in Kent, Edenbridge features a torchlit procession led by the Bishop of the Bonfire, followed by a carnival and marching band. The highlight is a bonfire featuring two 10-metre-tall effigies, including a traditional Guy Fawkes and a chosen celebrity figure decided ten days prior to the event. A 20-minute firework display concludes the evening.

Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular

Running on 7-8 November 2026 in Kent, this display takes place over the lake in front of Leeds Castle. The grounds open at 2pm, offering a funfair, live music, a maze, and food stalls, before the firework display begins at 5:30pm.