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The much anticipated annual parade will take place today as usual and according to Visit Lewes this year 3,000 people from six societies will take part in the procession and related events.
The bonfire is organized by the bonfire societies under Lewes Bonfire Council.
Every year the event draws thousands of people to Lewes to watch the torch-lit procession and the burning of effigies of famous figures.
Previous years have seen effigies of Sir Keir Starmer, Nigel Farage and Donald Trump go up in flames.
(Image: NQ)
Authorities have issued a warning that they expect higher attendance this year as the event falls on a Thursday.
A message has been issued to those living outside Lewes not to travel to the event and instead attend their own local celebrations.
Public bodies are concerned about overcrowding in the narrow streets of Lewes, as dozens of injuries are reported every year.
Paul Coppard, group manager of East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are asking people to support their locally organized firework events rather than traveling to Lewes on November 5.
“We have been working hard with the organizers and our partners to put plans in place to ensure we keep our community across East Sussex safe.
“We would also like to remind everyone to follow fire safety advice and the Fireworks Code.
“Please stay safe, follow official advice and do not put yourself at unnecessary risk.”
There will be a substantial police presence during the event.
Chief Superintendent Graham Barnett said: “Sussex Police will be working closely with event organisers, steward teams and our partners to ensure Lewes Bonfire Night is a safe and enjoyable occasion for everyone.”
Officers will be on patrol, with Chief Supt Barnett saying any crime or anti-social behavior will not be tolerated.
He said: “Enforcement action will be taken against anyone who puts others at risk or ignores event restrictions, including those who bring their own fireworks.”
Police have reminded anyone who sees suspicious behavior or anything that doesn’t seem right to report it to stewards, patrol officers or call 999.
What is Lewes Bonfire Night?
Lewes Bonfire Night is the biggest 5th November event in the world. It involves various torchlight processions, the burning of exhibits and fireworks.
The event celebrates the failure of the Guy Fawkes plot on November 5 and also commemorates the 17 martyrs who were burned at the stake during the reign of Queen Mary I, also known as Bloody Mary.
When does it take place?
Various processions will take place from 5.00 p.m. The grand procession, where the societies join together, is estimated to start between 20:00 and 21:00.
Individual celebration companies issue tickets to their own events.
The fireworks will take place around 11:00 p.m.
Where is the procession going?
The main procession route is from Western Road, through the bottleneck along the High Street before passing the War Memorial and down School Hill towards Boots Corner.
Which companies participate?
Lewes Borough, Commercial Square, Southover, Waterloo, South Street and Cliffe are the six societies taking part.
Each sells its own program with details of the route.
Which roads are closed?
Lewes District Council and Eastbourne Borough Council have created a map showing parking restrictions and road closures.
The road closures around Lewes, which will start from 4.45pm, are as follows:
· A27 Junction with A277 Brighton Road (Ashcombe Roundabout)
· A275 Offham Road with B2116 Plumpton Road
· Kingston Road junction with Wellgreen Lane
· A26 junction with A2029 Malling Street
· A26 Church Lane junction with Church Mayhew Way
· The Drove at the junction with Hamsey Lane onto the A275
Parking restrictions are expected to be in place from midday and roads are expected to reopen at 2am or once Sussex Police deem it safe.
Councilors have said that parking will not be allowed in the Brooks Industrial Estate on November 5.
The A27 will be open to through traffic only.
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Purple and blue lanes mean the road is closed between 4.45pm and 1am with on-street parking suspended from midday.
The black lines indicate westbound traffic only from 4:45 p.m. to 1 a.m. Street parking will also be suspended from 12 noon.
The orange route means that the road is closed from 16.45 to 01.00, but on-street parking is allowed in authorized bays.
The green lane is only open to through traffic, parking on the street is suspended from 12 o’clock.
Vehicles risk being towed after 2 p.m.
How are trains affected?
From 5pm there will be no trains calling at Lewes, Falmer, Cooksbridge, Glynde and Southease.
This lasts until the start of the service on Friday, November 6.
How are the buses affected?
There are diversions to services and travelers are advised to check with Brighton and Hove Buses and Traveline South East for more information.
Let us know in the comments which famous figure you think will be turned into an effigy this year.
