Brighton’s Burning the Clocks Parade Anticipates Thousands of Attendees

The annual Burning the Clocks parade in Brighton is set to draw thousands of spectators to its streets, concluding with a bonfire on the beach. Despite forecasts of wet and windy weather, organisers have confirmed the event will proceed, recommending attendees dress in layers and suitably for the conditions. However, strong winds led to the cancellation of the Brighton Winter Fayre, originally planned for this weekend. Robert Batson, representing Same Sky, the community arts organisation responsible for this winter solstice celebration, informed BBC Radio Sussex that 1,600 participants, carrying thousands of lanterns, are slated to join the parade. Now in its 30th year, the event carries an organisation cost of up to £45,000 and attracted nearly 30,000 people to the streets last year. Mr Batson commented: “It’s got more and more massive, last year was biggest ever for attendees.” The parade is scheduled to commence around 18:00 GMT in the town centre. Mr Batson indicated that the upper section of Madeira Drive would provide excellent vantage points for viewing the fireworks and bonfire. The winter solstice signifies the year’s shortest day, and the Brighton event’s organisers describe it as offering “an antidote to the excesses of Christmas.”