The Winchelsea Bonfire Boyes is local bonfire society that organises the annual Bonfire Night procession and display in Winchelsea every November and fund-raises throughout the rest of the year. They do various events round the year that culminates in a huge blowout (quite literally) with folks from all over coming to witness a massive bonfire held by them in honor of the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot. This throwback to history is thoroughly enjoyed by the townspeople and is a popular tradition that is conducted every year. The whole town gathers together and has a blast during this bonfire night and it is one of Winchelsea’s most famous exports.

Some events that the Winchelsea Bonfire Boys conduct-

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Curry Night

A very popular annual fund-raising event staged by the Winchelsea Bonfire Boyes to raise money for Bonfire Night. Usually held at the end of February.

Asparagus Evening

Another popular annual fund-raising event staged by the Winchelsea Bonfire Boyes to raise money for Bonfire Night. Local asparagus, poached salmon and new potatoes are the gastronomic delights of the evening, accompanying by a (not too serious) wine tasting, though this event may be subject to availability.

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Bonfire Night

This is the magnum opus. It is the annual celebration of the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot. Organized by the Winchelsea Bonfire Boyes, this is a popular event with families. The Bonfire Night begins with Guy Fawkes being paraded through the village on a cart. A torchlight procession marches through the village to the bonfire field. The Guy is placed on top of the bonfire is a ceremonial thump. Those members of the procession carry torches and gather around the bonfire and proceed to recite the Bonfire Prayer and then thrust their torches into the bonfire to light it. All are welcome. A collection is held on the night.