Fire spinning is a thrilling and visually stunning art form, bringing movement, light, and energy to the heart of Sideburn. Whether you’re an experienced performer or just starting out, there are plenty of opportunities to spin—from open performance areas to organized conclaves and the spontaneous energy of the Chaos Conclave before the Effigy burn.
To participate, fire spinners must check in with the Fire Art Safety Team (FAST) for equipment review, safety confirmation, and approval to spin. Training will be available for all skill levels. While fire spinning is a creative expression, it also requires strict adherence to safety, fuel management, and environmental responsibility. For full guidelines on fire spinning, safety protocols, and best practices, please review the official guidelines.
Questions? Contact FAST at fast@sideburn.ca.
Fire Spinning Opportunities
Important: All fire spinners and fire safety personnel must have a ticket purchased through the event’s ticketing system.
1. General Fire Spinning
Performance Areas
The main fire performance area will be near the Effigy for burn night. Additional smaller performance zones “cauldrons”, and theme camps will provide a variety of areas to perform. Cauldrons and individual camps details will be provided at check-in with FAST.
Community Engagement
Participants are encouraged to share knowledge, mentor newcomers, and foster a collaborative and supportive fire spinning community.
Check-in
Participants before spinning are asked to check in with FAST to review equipment, safety guidelines and review details on general Fire Spinning performance areas. Once complete Fire Spinners will receive a laminate and are free to spin in the designated areas.
2. Chaos Conclave
Overview
Chaos conclave provides a less structured environment to perform before the Effigy burn, encouraging spontaneous and individual performances within the designated areas. All general fire spinning safety guidelines apply during this and must be adhered to.
Safety Measures
- Performers must have a designated fire safety person present at all times.
- All general safety guidelines, including equipment checks and proper fuel handling, apply during chaos conclave.
- Communication and collaboration among participants are encouraged to create and maintain a safe environment.
Registration
If you would like to participate in Chaos Conclave during the Effigy Ceremony, please register in advance.
3. Organized Conclave Performances
Participation Requirements
Groups wishing to perform as part of an organized conclave must register in advance.
Performance Guidelines
- Organized conclave performances are choreographed and rehearsed sessions scheduled at specific times and locations.
- Performances must adhere to all approved safety protocols, including maintaining a safe distance from the audience and effigy and ensuring adequate fire suppression equipment is available.
- For more information, please contact the Fire Spinning Safety Lead at alysha@sideburn.ca or fast@sideburn.ca.
Registration
If you would like to participate as part of an organized conclave, please register in advance. Registration will gather information about your safety practices, performance vision, choreography, and logistical needs.
