Fun and Fireworks: Top 9 Things To Do On Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night and Fireworks Night, is a British tradition celebrated on the 5th of November in honour of a historic event. While its origin is quite dramatic, the day has turned into a time for fun, food and night skies filled with vibrant fireworks. Whether you’re spending time alone at home or attending a community event, there are plenty of things to do on Bonfire Night to celebrate it to the fullest. Keep reading for 9 ideas for indoor and outdoor Bonfire Night activities to enjoy alone, or with friends and family.

The Bonfire Night marks the failure of the Gunpowder Plot where a group of English Catholics with Guy Fawkes as the figurehead attempted to blow up King James I and the Houses of Parliament in London in 1605. The treason was hatched as they believed Catholics were being treated unfairly. They hoped that by killing James and replacing him with a Catholic leader, the situation would be improved.

Of course, the plan foiled as the police discovered the 36 barrels of gunpowder before it exploded and ceased all the men involved. They were subjected to torture and was ultimately executed.

To celebrate the King’s survival, people began lighting bonfires. Months later, at the initiation of the King, the Parliament mandated the Observance of 5th November Act, commonly known as the “Thanksgiving Act”.

But it’s time to turn the page, and…

Of course, no Bonfire Night celebration is complete without the cracking warmth of a bonfire. Gather your loved ones around a safe and controlled fire in your backyard. If you’re feeling extra social, invite your neighbours over too! It can be a great occasion to get to know them better. Follow the local regulations and make sure to extinguish the fire thoroughly when the festivities are over.

2. Roast Marshmallows

Indulge in the classic Bonfire Night treat of roasting marshmallows over the fire. It’s a fun and delicious activity for all ages. Enjoy them on their own or use them as toppings for irresistible s’mores.

If you burn a few, don’t be discouraged! Check the fire and make sure it has burned down to orange embers (not bursting with flame!), and place your marshmallow about 3 to 5 inches above the hot coals. Turn the stick slowly so that the marshmallow browns evenly on all sides and becomes gooey and warm inside. This should take somewhere between 15~30 seconds.

3. Watch Fireworks

Light up the night with spectacular fireworks. If you’re not comfortable setting them off yourself or have children around, sparklers are a safer option.

Alternatively, check your local community calendar for public fireworks displays. Many events feature fireworks, delicious food and drinks like toffee apples, hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows – perfect additions to your list of things to do on Bonfire Night.

Check out the top 8 UK hotspots for Bonfire Night 2024 including London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Inverness, Great Manchester, Bristol, Midlands and Leeds and see if there’s one near you.

Celebrating Bonfire Night in the UK with fireworks display in Newcastle Emlyn, Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Wales

4. Play Games

Keep the kids entertained with classic outdoor games like tag, apple bobbing, hide-and-seek, or sack races. Or you can create your own Guy Fawkes Quiz, organise a scavenger hunt, play chubby bunny, hot potato, or balloon popping.

For adults, the wink murder game is one of the top Bonfire Night activities. Sevens and truth or dare are some fun drinking games, and hot seat makes a great opportunity to get to know each other better, especially for groups.

With a little planning, you can create a memorable Bonfire Night event. But safety is paramount: always prioritise fire prevention, crowd management, and compliance with local regulations.

5. Tell Stories

What better time to gather round the bonfire and share stories, folklore and legends or tales of heroism? During November, average temperatures are between 7°C (45°F) and 12°C (54°F), creating an eerie atmosphere at night and the perfect setting for stories about ghosts, ghouls, witches and mythical creatures. Stories of historical events, local or national, are also often recounted.

Enhance your storytelling with cosy blankets for the participants, props and costume. Engage your audience with interactive questions and activities to make the experience more immersive.

Guy Fawkes effigy on the beach at Eastbourne, East Sussex, UK

If you still remember, Guy Fawkes was the infamous conspirator who attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and King James I in 1605. As a tradition, effigies of Fawkes are created and burned each year on Bonfire Night. Why not join in the fun by crafting your own Guy Fawkes effigy from old clothes, newspapers, and other materials you have at hand? Stuff it using hay or old rags, and give it a face with paint or markers.

Set the mood for your Bonfire Night celebration with Halloween and autumn-themed decorations. Think scarecrows, pumpkins, cobwebs and colourful leaves. You can also hang string lights, fairy lights or lanterns to create a cosy atmosphere.

Channel your inner artist and DIY the decorations, or for a quick and easy solution, pick up some ready-to-use ones from the supermarket or a nearby store. After the festivities, keep your decorations safe and sound at Cube Self Storage. Our flexible storage solutions can accommodate all your items, big or small.

The list of things to do on Bonfire Night would not be complete without indulging yourself in a festive feast. Savour traditional British cuisine like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, or bangers and mash. 

For a touch of whimsy, get creative and concoct festive cocktails like the “Bonfire Blast” or the “Guy Fawkes Fizz”. Or, warm up with a steaming cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate.

And don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with delightful treats inspired by the occasion, such as fireworks cookies, Guy Fawkes toffee or bonfire night cupcakes.

Snuggle up on the couch, wrap yourself in a warm blanket, prepare a hot snack, and a good book or movie. No matter how old we are, there’s always something new to discover and learn through books or movies. Whether it’s a thought-provoking novel or a classic film that offers valuable lessons, they will surely enrich our lives. Here are some movie suggestions for a Bonfire Night:

Classic British Films

• Great Expectations (1946)
• Pride and Prejudice (2005)
• The King’s Speech (2010)

Historical Dramas

• Elizabeth: The Golden Age (2007)
• Mary Queen of Scots (2018)
• Dunkirk (2017)

Fantasy Adventures

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)
• Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
• How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

Family-Friendly Films

• Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
• The Lion King (1994)
• The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005)

The Shining (1980), Halloween (1978), and The Conjuring (2013) are iconic horror films exploring themes of evil, madness, and the supernatural.

For Romantic Comedies: Love Actually (2003), When Harry Met Sally (1989), and Pride & Prejudice (2005) are beloved romantic comedies exploring the complexities of love and relationships.

This night is all about fun, friends, food and fireworks. Combining our suggestions on things to do on Bonfire Night with your preparation, you can create lasting memories that everyone will cherish. So, grab your sparklers, marshmallows, and get ready for a fun time!