The Return of the Light - Party Parade

Sunday 21st December — 3pm–6pm
The Great Hall (above St Leonards Church Market)

Join us for a vibrant pre-procession celebration! On the solstice itself, everyone gathers for an afternoon of music, singing, and dancing to brighten the darkest night of the year.

Expect an uplifting party featuring the incredible music of our local samba legends, a Big Sing led by local choirs, storytelling, and a reflective moment before we head to the beach for the procession and a heart-warming bonfire.

Bring your friends, family, and festive spirit for an unforgettable evening!

For the first time, this magical winter solstice celebration is coming to St Leonards. Modelled on the "Burning of the Clocks" by SameSky which has been running for nearly 40 years in Brighton and attracting up to 20,000 people, the procession lights up the night with hand-crafted lanterns created in remembrance of loved ones — pets, grandparents, family and friends whose memories we cherish.

The beautiful parade concludes with a fire ceremony on the beach, where lanterns are placed onto a communal bonfire. This year, the timing coincides with low tide, allowing us to share a poignant moment as the fire’s embers are slowly taken by the sea.

This event is all about community, creativity, and marking the turning of the year — saying goodbye to the old and welcoming the return of the sun.

The event is full of fun, warmth, and deep meaning.

These tickets are ONLY for entry to the Samba Soundclash Pre-Procession Party.
If you wish to participate in the lantern-making workshop on Saturday, separate tickets must be purchased.

The procession itself takes place on Sunday after the party.

• Samba Soundclash — dance, move, and celebrate together
• A Big Sing led by local choirs
• Short storytelling moments weaving in the themes of solstice & xmas

Saturday 20th December — 12 noon–4pm
The Great Hall (above St Leonards Church Market)

Drop in anytime during the afternoon to make your lanterns with support from two facilitators from Radiator Arts. The process can take from half an hour to the whole afternoon depending on how much you want to personalise your design.

Storytellers will also be present, sharing tales of solstice, Christmas, remembrance, and the return of the light.

All materials are provided, and you’re free to come and go as you please. Finished lanterns will be left to dry at the venue and can be collected the following day for the parade.

The bustling market downstairs offers delicious food and plenty of options for last-minute Christmas shopping.

All lantern workshop participants receive FREE ENTRY to the Sunday party.

Also check out other Workshops in St Leonards, Arts events in St Leonards.