Brighton Burning of the Clocks 2025 – Winter Solstice Celebration

Brighton Burning of the Clocks 2025

Brighton Burning of the Clocks transforms the city into a dazzling winter spectacle each year. The celebration marks the winter solstice with fire, lanterns, and music. On 21 December 2025, thousands gather along Brighton’s streets and seafront to celebrate the passing of time with the city’s iconic lantern parade and bonfire. This unique event has remained a spectacle for locals and visitors alike for more than two decades.

A Magical Winter Night

Brighton, one of the south coast’s most popular destinations, is easily accessible with a Car Rental at Brighton. The Burning of the Clocks festival is one of the best reasons to visit Brighton in winter. During this annual celebration, around 2,000 participants carry intricately crafted paper lanterns through the city, creating a luminous procession that culminates in a spectacular bonfire on the beach. The flames and pyrotechnics illuminate the longest night of the year – a truly unforgettable experience for all ages.

The Parade Route

The festival begins at New Road in Brighton city centre at 6.30pm, winding its way through North Street, Ship Street, and East Street, before reaching the seafront at Madeira Drive. At approximately 7.15pm, participants pass their lanterns into the bonfire, accompanied by an energetic fire show with music and pyrotechnics. Spectators line the Upper Terrace and Madeira Drive for the best views, but these areas fill quickly, so early arrival is recommended.

The official event ends around 8pm, but the celebration continues with an after-party at Patterns restaurant and club on Marine Parade, featuring live bands and DJs for those who want to keep the festivities going.

Taking Part

To join the parade, participants can purchase a lantern kit, which includes wristbands and materials to make two lanterns. For safety, organisers inspect every lantern; non-regulation homemade lanterns, Chinese sky lanterns, and fireworks are not permitted.

While the event is rarely cancelled, extreme weather conditions may lead to postponement, so visitors should check official updates in advance.

How to reach Burning the Clocks

Brighton Burning of the Clocks is a communal ritual celebrating the passing of the year, creativity, and light in the heart of winter. Lantern-makers, parade participants, and spectators work together to create a vibrant and ephemeral display, where fire and music unite thousands of people in a shared moment of reflection, joy, and awe. You can take a Dollar Car rental and go on a tour for this event.