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Burning the Clocks 2024

A unique community lantern parade in Brighton

Dates: December 21

Burning the Clocks
Burning the Clocks
Burning the Clocks
Burning the Clocks
Burning the Clocks
Burning the Clocks
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An annual Burning the Clocks lantern parade and fire show is held on the 21st of December in Brighton downtown. The event is organized by Same Sky, local art non-profit organization to mark the shortest day of the year. The carnival-like procession makes its way through the city center to the seafront where the festivities reach its peak with bonfire and fireworks. Many Brighton residents make their own paper and willow lanterns to participate in the parade and then throw them into a bonfire on Brighton beach, as a symbol of the year’s end.

Burning the Clocks is a lively Brighton tradition that dates back to 1993 when the first procession of lanterns and costumes took place and was led by local bands. The idea behind Burning the Clocks was to show an alternative to the excesses of the commercial Christmas. Organizers hope that new urban rituals will be secular and non-superstitious.

The event is organized by the Same Sky art charity. The idea was to present an antidote to the commercial Christmas and gather people of various backgrounds, religions, and beliefs. The procession attracts over 20,000 spectators. More than 2,000 people participate in the parade and take part in this beautiful and artistic tradition.

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin