Bonfire Night Explained: Why Does the UK Celebrate the 5th November?

“Remember, remember the fifth of November…”

Halloween may be just around the corner, but in the UK, that means another significant festival is on the horizon. If you’ve ever heard the sound of fireworks or smelled bonfires filling the air around this time of year, it’s because Bonfire Night is a huge deal over here.

Every 5th November, the UK is illuminated by firelight, but what exactly are we commemorating? How did an event that happened 400 years ago become one of the biggest and brightest nights on the British cultural calendar?

Let’s unpack the history, the hype, and the best places students can enjoy Bonfire Night in the UK.

What is Bonfire Night?

Bonfire Night, sometimes known as Guy Fawkes Night, is a British tradition celebrated across the country every 5th November. It marks the failure of the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605, when a group of conspirators tried to blow up the House of Lords during the formal state opening of Parliament.

Their objective? To ‘remove’ King James 1st and replace him with a Catholic Monarch. The plan was elaborate, ambitious, and ultimately doomed.

One of the men who was caught and put on trial for his role in the plot was Guy Fawkes. While not being one of the major plotters, Fawkes’s name became synonymous with the story. Now, every year, people across the UK gather around flaming bonfires, enjoy firework displays, and sometimes burn effigies of Fawkes to mark the occasion.

Why Does the UK Celebrate It?

Well, the tradition actually started with a law created by the British government. People were encouraged to celebrate the king’s survival with church services and fireworks. Over time, the holiday became more of a community celebration and a way for neighbourhoods to come together each year.

Beneath the fun and cheer, Bonfire Night is a cautionary tale of treason, loyalty, and power. The fireworks symbolise the gunpowder that never exploded, and the bonfires… well, let’s just say they represent the flames used to punish those involved.

How is Bonfire Night Celebrated Today?

In modern Britain, Bonfire Night isn’t really about politics. It’s about bringing people together as the colder nights draw in. Common traditions include:

• Firework displays: These can range from shows in people’s gardens to large scale events held across the country.
• Bonfires: Often built in parks or fields, they burn for hours and are strangely mesmerising.
• Effigies of Guy Fawkes: Known as “Guys”, these are sometimes made by people to collect change as they ask, “Penny for the Guy?”. This is a tradition that’s becoming less widespread these days, though.
• Food stalls and fairs: Imagine jacket potatoes, hot dogs, and treacle toffee.

Tips for New Students: Public transport can be limited near large displays. Check times online and dress for the chillier weather.

More on the Gunpowder Plot

For those wanting a deeper history lesson, we’ll go into a little more detail on the tale of the Gunpowder Plot here.

The conspirators included Robert Catesby, Thomas Wintour, and, of course, Guy Fawkes, among others. The aim was to protest against the Protestant monarchy’s persecution of Catholics.

The plotters smuggled 36 barrels of gunpowder into a cellar beneath the UK Parliament. Their plan came unstuck when one member’s warning letter to a friend led to an unexpected midnight search. Guy Fawkes was caught red-handed, later being tortured and executed for treason.

After the event, the plot’s failure was declared divine intervention, and the king’s survival was deemed cause for national celebration.

Is Bonfire Night Still Relevant?

Yes, it’s huge! Like most traditions, it’s changed with time. While the political and religious connotations aren’t top of the agenda for most, the event has become a great way for families and friends to enjoy some unique events. For students and those new to the city, Bonfire Night offers:

• A chance to bond with flatmates or coursemates outside the classroom.
• A budget friendly night out that doesn’t involve alcohol.
• Events that typify British culture.

Visiting a local bonfire or firework display can be a real moment of stillness during a busy period for students. It’s also one of the best ways for you to immerse yourself in the communities of your city.

What Students are Saying About Bonfire Night?

There’s a lot of love for Bonfire Night, and some helpful tips for those who’ve never experienced it before. Here are a few things students mention online:

• “Bring a blanket and a folding chair”. Standing in the mud for hours isn’t for everyone.
• “Smaller displays can be better than ticketed events”. Easier access, fewer crowds, and community spirit.
• “Toffee Apples are overrated and sticky”. A personal opinion that we’ll let you decide upon.

Best Places to Enjoy Bonfire Night in the UK

From London’s Alexandra Palace to Alton Towers’ huge firework displays, there’s no shortage of great events held across the country. Student cities such as Nottingham, Manchester, Liverpool, and Edinburgh also host huge displays every year.

Want to see what’s happening this year? Find an event close to home with this updated list of the best Bonfire Night events in the UK for 2025. 

Bonfire Night FAQs

Is Guy Fawkes a Hero or a Villain?

This depends on who you ask. To some, he was a rebel with a cause. To others, a traitor who deserved to be punished. Either way, his story continues to be a point of contention among British people.

Are Bonfire Night and Halloween the Same?

No, they are separate holidays. Halloween has Celtic and Pagan roots, with a focus on the mystical. Bonfire Night is truly British and is based on a true story.

Do Other Countries Celebrate?

Not really. Some former colonies, such as New Zealand, have minor celebrations, but for the most part, it’s a British occasion.

Explore Your City

Whether you’re staying close to campus or commuting from outside the centre, make the most of life at university this Autumn. Discover our city pages and find out why the UK is home to some of the best student cities in the world.

We Didn’t Start the Fire

Bonfire Night is more than just fireworks. It’s a historical moment that’s retold through lights, smoke, and flames. Whatever draws you to your local display or bonfire, it’s a night that’s worth marking on your calendar.

So, wrap up warm, discover your nearest events, and enjoy one of Britain’s most unique traditions.