On November 5, London celebrates one of the most important events in its history: Bonfire Night.
Bonfire Night is one of the country's most unique and exciting events.
Let's discover Bonfire Night.
History of Bonfire Night: article summary
History of Bonfire Night: What is it?
Across the country, Bonfire Night is the national recognition of the Powder Plot, fomented by Catholic terrorists in 1605.
This event is celebrated because the attack has been foiled and the conspirators brought to justice. Bonfire Night usually sees participants costume parades and fireworks.
You'll also see parade floats inspired by current events and historical figures. The event often ends with a bonfire and fireworks display.
Even if traditions vary from region to region, the basic concepts and rituals are always the same.
What happened on November 5, 1605?
Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night after the main conspirator, celebrates the failed assassination of King James I.
This event saw a group of British-born Catholics set up a cache of gunpowder under Parliament, which they planned to set alight while the king was in the building.
This event planned to kill the king and replace him with a Catholic head of state, thus ensuring the end of Protestant domination of the country.
A story of religion and power
With its history of battles with the Spanish Catholics, who were England's sworn enemies at the time, the discovery of Guy Fawkes guarding the cache in the underground sparked celebrations across the country.
The January execution of Guy Fawkes had been preceded a few days earlier by a decree from the King, authorizing the celebration of the foiled plot on condition that it caused no public damage or harm to revelers.
For many years, Guy Fawkes became the focal point of anti-Catholic sentiment. Celebrations defended the English Church right up to the Victorian era.
The Guy Fawkes evening remains a staple of British and London culture to this day.
Take part in the Guy Fawkes evening in London
As the setting for the plot, London has naturally become a focal point for celebrations across the country.
Generally falling on weekends or before November 5There's plenty to celebrate across the city.
History of Bonfire Night: Victoria Park
The East London park truly becomes the "people's park" on Bonfire Night.
With fireworks, a huge bonfire and countless food stalls and ephemeral bars, this incredible event in one of London's most idyllic parks is the perfect community adventure for London guests.
Fireworks in Battersea Park
The extravagance of Battersea Park attracts more than 50,000 people a year and takes place on November 2..
This is undoubtedly one of the city's biggest fireworks displays. It promises visitors a unique experience in the English capital.
History of Bonfire Night: fireworks at the Alexander Palace
Alexander Palace is home to one of the city's most famous event venues. What's more, the magnificent grounds offer sparkling views over the city's rooftops.
What better way to enjoy an evening around a bonfire than with the atmospheric backdrop to this 150-year-old event!
With its own German beer festival, Luna cinema and even an ice rink, there's a lot more going on here than just fireworks.
Newham Guy Fawkes Night
This free fireworks evening features fairground rides, food stalls and a magnificent fireworks display. in Newham's Silvertown Quays district.
With a light show and music accompanying the fireworks, this amazing show features some of the best free fireworks in the city.
Hackney fireworks at Clissold Park
November 2, idyllic Clissold Park, based in Hackneyopens its doors with :
- A children's area
- Food and drink stalls
- A dazzling display of fireworks.
With doors opening at 5 p.m. and the event closing at 9 p.m., you've got plenty of time to enjoy some of the best fireworks in East London.
Enjoy a bonfire evening at Wimbledon
Although smaller in capacity, this south-west London fireworks display is one of the few to take place on November 5.
With its magnificent park surroundings WimbledonThis fireworks display consists of two parts. The first part is for children at 8 p.m., while a second, louder part takes place at 10 p.m.
Bonfire Night is a not-to-be-missed event in London. It's a real turning point in the city's history, an event to be experienced at least once in a lifetime.
What to do in London in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special London guide.
It's free and in PDF format.
All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.
EDIT: you can't enter your email?
Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special London guide!
Leave a Reply