Millennium Clocks Carnival of the Planets

On 1st January 2000, representatives from every village in the district gathered in Dover to welcome the new millennium. Following the lantern displays on New Year's Eve, the streets of Dover burst into a vibrant carnival of light and colour, styled like a Mardi Gras celebration, with the illuminated "Carnival of the Planets." In this grand spectacle, Dover represented the sun, while the surrounding villages became the planets, uniting to form a complete solar system.

The procession led the crowds to Dover Harbour, where a large mechanical structure emerged from the ashes. As the planets approached, the orrery illuminated, and as they aligned, it erupted in a spectacular display of sound and light, with pyrotechnics soaring into the sky, eliciting enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience.

The event drew over 17,000 local people across the two nights, showcasing the impact of community-focused celebrations. Older and more vulnerable spectators particularly appreciated the opportunity to join in the festivities in a safe and inclusive environment, celebrating the momentous occasion together.