Each year, London marks the historic moment when Guy Fawkes and his motley crew attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and King James I in the Gunpowder Plot of 5 November 1605.
It is still customary today for the cellars in the Houses of Parliament to be searched by the Yeoman of the Guard before each State Opening of Parliament.
The day became known as Guy Fawkes Day or Guy Fawkes Night, but it’s now more commonly called Bonfire Night.
As follows the tradition, Bonfire Night is celebrated every year on or around 5 November. Bonfires are usually lit on which effigies known as “guys” are burned, while the skies are filled with colourful fireworks. It’s also a time to enjoy traditional Bonfire Night food and drink, alongside music, funfairs and family activities.
Follow these top tips to make sure your Bonfire Night goes off with a bang:
Find what’s on offer during London Bonfire Night below, from east to west, north to south.
Head to one of north London’s best vantage points for a night of fun at the Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival. One of the top Bonfire Night events in London, the activities on offer at Ally Pally’s fireworks include a German beer festival, music from Gok Wan MBE, an ice disco and a dazzling light show. 5 Nov. Book Alexandra Palace fireworks tickets now
Witness one of two breath-taking displays of pyrotechnics at the Wimbledon Park fireworks, where music and fireworks combine to create a dramatic show. A spectacular fire and light show has replaced the usual bonfire at this climate-conscious event in recent years. There are also rides and a variety of food stalls for snacks. 4 Nov. Book Wimbledon Park fireworks tickets now
A similar event to the Wimbledon fireworks, this musical-themed fireworks in Morden Park take place each year. Enjoy the music and funfair rides, and tuck into warming food and drink to enjoy from the street food village. 5 Nov. Book Morden Park fireworks tickets now
Join thousands of revellers as this pretty park is illuminated with a huge bonfire and a spectacular fireworks display every year. Tuck into food and drink from the restaurants and bars at nearby Battersea Power Station, before enjoying the Battersea fireworks display on the banks of the river Thames. Pick between Bonfire Night on 5 November or Family Night on 6 November, which has an earlier start. 5-6 Nov
Take the kids to Beckenham Fireworks in the Park at Croydon Road Recreation Ground each year, which has plenty of family entertainment. Choose between a quiet firework show, or the big bangs of the main display later in the evening. Be sure to arrive early to enjoy Bonfire Night food and the funfair. 5 Nov
Head to leafy Barnes in south-west London for the annual Bonfire Night display at Barnes Sports Club. Alongside a traditional bonfire and fireworks display, there’s a “Best Guy” competition, BBQ, bar and music from a DJ. Purchase glow in the dark toys and sparklers for a fun bonfire night with the family. 5 Nov
Experience one of the biggest firework displays in west London at Kempton Park Racecourse. You’ll find thrilling rides, DJ sets, warming food and a themed firework display set to top tunes, which are sure to impress! 5 Nov
If you’re looking for a “Bonfire Night near me” and local firework displays, download the Visit London app.
Bonfire Night in London is not the only large-scale London fireworks event. At the end of the year, London’s largest annual fireworks display usually takes place: London New Year’s Eve Fireworks. This event is not yet confirmed for 2022, but you can find plenty more things to do in London on New Year’s Eve.
Source: https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/whats-on/special-events/best-bonfire-night-fireworks-displays-london