Taking place bang smack in the middle of semester one, Bonfire Night is a seasonal event very much celebrated at university. After all, nothing says spooky season more than dark nights and bonfires…
So whether you’re searching for a local fireworks event to head to with your course friends or an alternative way to celebrate Guy Fawkes Night, our university guide to Bonfire Night has everything you need to know – including a comprehensive Fireworks Night safety checklist.
A brief history of Firework Night
Many of us celebrate Bonfire Night without knowing its history. But what was so important about the 5th of November? And who on earth was Guy Fawkes?
In 1605, a man called Guy (Guido) Fawkes wanted to blow up Parliament as part of the Gunpowder Plot; this plot was planned by a group of Catholics who wanted the recently changed Protestant England to become Catholic again.
To force political change, Guy Fawkes and his accomplices planted 36 barrels of gunpowder under the Houses of Parliament, hoping to kill King James I and his ministers. The plot failed, however, when one of the conspirators sent a letter to a friend working in Parliament, warning him to stay away on November 5th and alerting authorities to the imminent danger.
The King’s supporters quickly seized the letter and broke into the cellars to arrest the group and foil their plan. The result? Parliament stayed in one piece, and the tradition of lighting a dummy man on top of bonfires to celebrate was born.
How to find the best university bonfire night events
For the full Guy Fawkes experience, we recommend heading to your local fireworks display. Not only do these shows have professional firework displays, but you can also grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls.
Your student union might also put on bonfire events and fireworks displays, so make sure to check out what’s on leading up to Guy Fawkes Night.
The best places to find bonfire events are:
Student Union website
Eventbrite
Local council websites
City-specific guides
Social media pages
Local newspapers and websites
Hosting your own bonfire night event
If you would prefer to stay at home rather than celebrate in a big crowd, there are also many options. Since bonfires and fireworks are generally prohibited on university grounds or in student housing, you will need to get a little creative here.
Consider alternative celebrations, like a themed movie night with plenty of LED candles, or a warm potluck dinner filled with treats that can easily be made in a student kitchen. Some festive recipes for Bonfire Night food might include:
If you’re feeling traditional, you could also make Parkin, a traditional ginger-bread cake from Yorkshire. This tasty treat is associated with Bonfire Night, so it makes the perfect addition to any Bonfire Night party.
And don’t forget to make a big bowl of hot chocolate to keep warm. If you’re heading out to watch fireworks from your street, this will also fit nicely into flasks!
Staying safe at Fireworks Night
It would be stating the obvious to say that Bonfire Night can be dangerous. That’s why it’s really important to keep yourself and your friends safe when marking this event.
Emergency services suggest that students should always avoid lighting their own fireworks and go to an organised event instead. This way, you can be sure that proper safety protocols are in place. Not to mention, know that the fireworks will actually go off!
Bonfire Night Safety Checklist
Use our student safety checklist to keep everyone safe this Guy Fawkes night when watching a fireworks display:
Don’t build your own bonfires or let off fireworks.
Always watch from a safe distance of at least 45 metres away from the display.
Wear appropriate clothing, avoiding flowing or highly flammable fabrics.
Stay in designated areas and remain behind any barriers, ropes, or safety fences.
Don’t pick up any debris, glowing objects, or unexploded fireworks.
Never bring your own fireworks, including sparklers, to a show.
Identify the location of the First Aid Post and any emergency exits when you arrive.
If you’re sensitive to loud noises, consider wearing earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones.
Be mindful of your footing, as the ground may be dark, uneven, or wet.
We hope your bonfire celebrations go off with a bang!
