It seems to have etched as an Annual Tradition, to visit Lewes Bonfire Society each year either working (in the family Italian restaurant, until it closed in October 2000), or simply being a specatator, of what is a fantastic and fun event. I’ve only missed the odd year over the past 15 odd years (yes it’s that traditional). It always gets National (if not International) attention and media coverage 🙂
I usually go with a great mate of mine from University, and it is usually a very enjoyable experience. Each year, we try to find the right vantage spot to see the possession, look out for the Hog/Spit Roast (yum!) – and grab a few beers, before we watch the possessions and firework displays. We would usually hang around the Cliffe Area of the Town, as there are 2 groups that congegrate around that area. The town is pretty much shut-down from about 5pm as the town prepares for the event which flows throughout the night and into the early hours.
For those who haven’t been, do look up ‘lewes bonfire night’ on google 🙂 Here’s a map if you are thinking of going to it 🙂
If you want a more succinct summary of the background, why each year this happens in Lewes, and what is the point of it all, then fear not – head over the Wikipedia 🙂 It’s all remembering the Guy Fawkes’ Gunpowder Plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London.
The funny thing is that the town’s population is around 16k and visitor figures ranging from 50k-80k flow into the town for this once night each year – it’s that magical!
The best thing about the night is to look out for the effigies that are carried through the streets – there is always the odd politician, celebratory or terrorist or two (Osama Bin Laden was the one in 2001 🙂 )
Photos? Well head over to Brigatti Online’s Bonfire Gallery (2008 was one of the years I missed, as I was not feeling well):
Any how, it’s a shame that I can’t visit Lewes this year, but hope those who do attend it – have a thoroughly enjoyable time.