How to Celebrate Guy Fawkes Day

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Having Your Own Celebration

Bonfires are a traditional part of Guy Fawkes celebrations. To light your bonfire, mark out the area with bricks to stop the fire from spreading, place some scrunched newspapers or pinecones at the base of the fire pit, and then stack small pieces of wood on top. Once you have lit the fire and it is steadily burning, place larger pieces of wood on to keep it burning.^{[1] X Research source}

Never use petrol or alcohol to kick-start a fire, as this can cause accidents. Also, avoid lighting the fire on a windy day to help prevent it from spreading quickly.

Always keep water on hand in case the fire gets out of control. Also, closely monitor any children nearby, as bonfires are a high-risk activity.

Light your bonfire on land that is free of trees and that you have permission to use.

Effigies are small figurines of people that are burned to remember the day that the British Parliament was almost destroyed. Purchase effigies from a Guy Fawkes stall or make your own by stuffing children's clothes with straw.^{[2] X Research source}

This tradition is particularly popular in England.

Effigies were originally made to look like Guy Fawkes, the man that tried to blow up the House of Parliament; however, now they are just faceless straw men.

Advertisement

This is one of the most popular ways to celebrate Guy Fawkes. Buy fireworks from an authorised supplier and only purchase fireworks that are considered to be safe for use in a domestic context. Follow the instructions on the packet and light them in an open space, such as the beach or on a grass field. Always light the fireworks away from children and pets to help prevent injuries.^{[3] X Research source}

In many countries you can only purchase fireworks the week of Guy Fawkes.

Adhere to the fireworks regulations in your country.

The food eaten at Guy Fawkes tends to vary between different communities. Hot soup and grilled potatoes are timeless favourites that will keep you warm throughout the night. Parkin cake is another great option if you want a sweet treat.^{[4] X Research source}
Any traditional party foods, such as crisps, lollies, and cake are also appropriate for Guy Fawkes celebrations.

Drinking mulled wine is a great way to stay warm on cold nights and helps to make the evening feel festive. Place the mulled wine in crockpots to keep it warm or place lids on your pots to keep the heat in. Put a ladle next to the mulled wine to allow your guests to serve themselves throughout the night.^{[5] X Research source}
Provide non-alcohol drinks, such as juice, to cater to people who don't want to drink alcohol or want to drive home.

These masks are normally black or white and have painted-on moustaches, goatees, and eyebrows. The sinister looks of these masks are a reflection of the sombre origins of Guy Fawkes days; however, don't let the scary masks put a damper on your celebrations!^{[6] X Research source}
Purchase a Guy Fawkes mask from a miscellaneous store or from a Guy Fawkes store.

Advertisement

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Attending a Celebration

This is a fun way to immerse yourself in your community's Guy Fawkes celebrations. Check your local newspaper or noticeboard for information about the time and location of the parade. Guy Fawkes parades generally have a range of festive stalls, a parade of floats, and fireworks.^{[7] X Research source}
If your local community doesn't have a parade, search online to see where the closest one is.

This is a great option if you want to see professional fireworks and it is a much safer option than lighting them yourself. Search online for a fireworks show near you. Schools, churches, and community groups often hold fireworks displays and host community celebrations.^{[8] X Research source}
Many firework shows will have a small entrance fee.

Sitting around a bonfire is a great way to bond with friends whilst remembering the history of the day. If you don't have the space and resources to host your own bonfire, join a friend's bonfire or attend a community bonfire event.^{[9] X Research source}

Bring marshmallows to roast if you feel like a delicious treat.

Guy Fawkes day is sometimes called Bonfire Day due to the large number of bonfires that are lit each year on the 5th of November.

Guy Fawkes parties are usually held in people's homes and involve eating delicious food, lighting fireworks, and dancing. Ask your friends if they are holding a Guy Fawkes party or search online to see if any community groups, such as sports clubs or interest groups, are hosting a party.^{[10] X Research source}
Never drive home if you have been drinking alcohol – organise a ride home or catch a taxi.

Advertisement