This Year’s Guildford Fireworks Night By the Lions Could Be the Last

Published on: 16 May, 2025
Updated on: 16 May, 2025

Will Guildford have an organised firework display in 2026?

By Martin Giles

The future of what has become Guildford’s traditional firework display is under serious threat.

Generations of Guildfordians have happy memories of the Guildford Lions Firework display which has been a featured in the Guildford community calendar for over 50 years

In that half-century the event has raised tens of thousands of pounds, all of which has been used to support local people in need.

But due to a combination of rising costs and reduced commercial sponsorship, there is now a real risk that this wonderful community event could be coming to an end.

A spokesperson person for the Guildford Lions Club explained: “We are a charitable club of just 40 members, all volunteers, and our purpose is to help support our local community by staging a variety of events and then using every penny of profit to help others in need.”

The Guildford Fireworks Festival is by far the charity’s largest fund raiser attracting crowds of up to 10,000 people but the costs of staging such a large event are considerable and it relies on support from local businesses to make the event financially viable.

The spokesperson continued: “We have had tremendous support from a number of local firms over many years, for which we are extremely grateful, but this year we have seen a significant reduction which increases the financial risk for the club hugely and also reduces the potential amounts we can use to help people.

“Despite this, we are determined to carry on for this year and I can confirm the display and the live music will happen again on Saturday November 8 this year. With any money raised we will be supporting the Fountain Centre, a local cancer charity and our club welfare fund once all the costs have been paid.

“But the harsh reality is that without additional support it is most likely this will be the last year that we will be able to stage this wonderful community event.”

Guildford Lions hope that some additional sponsorship might be found to help both this year and going forward so they can continue their charity work.

“We would certainty welcome the opportunity to sit down and discuss how this might work with any interested parties,” said their spokesperson.

Cllr Catherine Houston

Guildford’s Lead councillor for Commercial Services, Catherine Houston, commented: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to support the Guildford Lions Firework display over many years. This year the council has agreed to waive the hire charge for Stoke Park as its financial contribution to the community firework display.

“We hope that the Guildford Lions Club can find more sponsors to support this fantastic event. Our Events Team will continue to work closely with the Lions and offer as much event support as possible.”

If you feel you might be able to support the Guildford Lions please contact them by emailing them at gfdlionsfireworks@gmail.com

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