The Chailey Bonfire Society has two principal aims: to provide an annual Bonfire Celebration for the people of Chailey (with a special emphasis on the fireworks display being geared to children) and to provide and host a Christmas Party for the Senior Citizens who live in the village of Chailey.
Chailey Bonfire Society is one of the oldest Bonfire Societies in East Sussex. It is able to trace its history back to 5th November 1866, when the Chailey Bonfire Boyes celebrated by visiting the Five Bells pub. The Society was re-founded in 1966 and provides the village of Chailey with an annual parade and firework display. Over the years its dedicated members and local villagers have worked hard to ensure that the Bonfire Society has continued to thrive in the village of Chailey. It aims to hold at least 10 quality events every year to raise the money necessary to ensure that it can satisfy its core objectives.
The firework evening is designed as a family event and themed towards children in order to celebrate 5th November in a fun and safe way. The event always takes place on the 1st Saturday after the 5th. The torch-lit procession usually comprises steam engines, vintage vehicles and themed children’s floats. Village members and local non-bonfire societies/clubs are invited to design floats and costumes. Two awards are presented every year for best float and best costume in the procession.
