Millennium Clocks

Thousands of local people came together to celebrate the turn of the century with a spectacular display of projections, music, and the symbolic burning of the Clock of the Second Millennium.

"We shall carry the light of our lanterns in a procession to the seafront, where we will witness the burning of the Clock of the Second Millennium, celebrating the achievements, hopes, and aspirations of the human race over the past 2000 years, while being mindful of our frailties, failings, and weaknesses."
—Cllr Woodbridge, Dover Council

Strange Cargo was commissioned by Dover District Council to create two major Millennium events, marking Dover as the first place in the UK to see the sun rise on the new century. The celebrations began with a stunning lantern parade, where ten local communities, led by the Bethlehem Peace Light, processed through the streets of Dover to the seafront. There, thousands gathered to witness a spectacular display, culminating in the clock's fiery end, symbolising the passage of time with flames and fireworks.

The festivities continued on New Year's Day with "The Carnival of the Planets," leading to the awakening of a massive mechanical orrery, bringing the celebrations to a memorable close.