Burning the Clocks 2023: Thousands attend Brighton parade

Samba was the soundtrack on the streets as hundreds of paper lanterns lit up the streets for the annual solstice event described as a “Brighton institution”.

The parade, said to be the biggest to date, attracted masses of people. Over 30,000 revellers were believed to be either taking part in the parade or watching from the pavement.

Thousands head to Marine Parade (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

Matt Green, musical director at Bloco Fogo samba band, said: “We have been involved for many years but took a bit of time and this is our first time back.

“We’re super excited to be here. It marks the shortest day of the year but also brings the community together.

“We’re waving goodbye to the last 12 months and saying hello to the 12 months to come.”

Burning the Clocks is an annual lantern parade held on December 21 and marking the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year.

North Street (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

The event was first held in 1993 with this year’s event marking it’s 30th anniversary.

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Revellers braved the cold and dressed for the occasion (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

Despite the bonfire element of the event being cancelled due to fears over strong winds the parade still delighted awestruck passers-by.

A variety of lanterns based around the theme of “Clocks” delighted people standing and watching including an intricately designed set of turning clock gears.

Giant inventions paraded alongside the handheld lanterns (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

Other lanterns included one in the ship of the Empire Windrush boat as well as the Tardis and a Dalek from Doctor Who.

Steve, who took part in the parade helped to design the Doctor Who lanterns, said: “We thought the theme was time rather than clocks so we made the Doctor Who lanterns. Last year we made Minions.

“We came last year as well and it was good fun.”

The night ended with a spectacular firework display (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

His friend Nick added: “It’s a Brighton institution. It attracts tonnes of families and its got something for everyone.

“It’s also not rained which is a massive bonus.”

Organisers Same Sky estimated that 2,300 people took part in the parade. Around 28,000 also watched the parade wind through New Road and North Street before heading through The Lanes and onto the seafront.