Rotherhithe Bonfire Night 2022

Every year in Rotherhithe, on November 5, we come together to celebrate Bonfire Night, with fireworks lighting up the skies across the county of Greater London.

What information is important to know about Rotherhithe's Bonfire Night?

Over the years, the Bonfire Night has become an annual event.

What is it that makes people love these celebrations so much?

You can get up to speed with the reasons behind its popularity with a quick overview.

Why do we celebrate Bonfire Night?

The main reason why Guy Fawkes failed in his attempt to assassinate King James I is because of the Bonfire Night celebrations.

This happened in 1605 and people have been celebrating it ever since.

There was a lot of anger against the king, due to the fact that he was against the Catholics.

There was a vision that only an armed struggle would restore Catholicism to its rightful place.

The supporters came up with a plan to blow up the Palace.

The plan was to assassinate the king during the process.

A conspiracy member sent a letter to the parliament, but was cold feet.

The conspirators were taken into custody when they learned of the plan.

The Parliament made a statement about the situation and shared the fact that the conspirators were caught and punished.

The Parliament decided to light up bonfires on the 5th of November as a way to be thankful.

We eventually ended up at the Bonfire Night.

There are Bonfire Night activities throughout the UK.

Over the years it has become a community focused event despite the fact that its origins are sinister.

The firework manufacturers decided to change the celebration's name to Fireworks Night at the beginning of the 20th century because of its focus on having fun.

The event of the 20th century was more similar to what we are experiencing today.

Which foods are popular at Bonfire Nights?

The events of bonfires and fireworks are not the only celebration of the night.

There are many different foods associated with this event.

The jacket potato, parkin, black peas, treacle toffee, and the toffee apples are all associated with Bonfire Night.

These are eaten throughout the country, and some regions have their own special meals prepared for the 5th of November.

Some families eat soups and share them with friends or family.

What should you wear for the Bonfire Night events?

People tend to dress up in different costumes depending on where they live on Bonfire Night.

It is an interesting approach in preparation for the events.

The Bonfire Night is a good time for most people to show off their winter wardrobe.

Something to keep in mind is that a winter knit with a classical touch is the right way to go.

You don't have to wear a costume, but a proper outfit that protects you against the cold weather is more than welcome.

There are traditions associated with the Bonfire Night

People in costumes use flaming torches, fireworks and sparklers during Bonfire Night.

This is a clear nod to the failure of Guy Fawkes and his band as they tried to blow up the Parliament, a celebration of independence, but in a safe manner.

The majority of the time, there is a firework display followed by a large bonfire.

There are attractions for Bonfire Night.

There are a lot of amazing attractions in the UK.

In the countryside, there are usually large bonfires, food and drinks shared with the community, and smaller events.

For a lot of people, Bonfire Night has become a community-focused event, where everyone has a great time, and they enjoy the presence of other like-minded people.

With some regions going out of their way to use incredible fireworks for a night to remember, you will get to enjoy some great firework displays.

There are some traditions:

• During the Bonfire Night processions flaming tar barrels are carried on the shoulders. This is a nod to the plans that Guy Fawkes and his team made to blow up the Parliament building.
• The bonfires are not just a symbol of the failed complot, they are also used to cook all kinds of food. A lot of people make soup for the people coming by to see the fireworks. Some people cook potatoes in a foil with marshmallows or sausages as well. People eat the parking cake on Bonfire Night. There is a cake with syrup, ginger, oatmeal, and treacle.
• It is very common for people in the UK to make a model of a man and burn it. This effigy is made out of straw or paper and stuffed with old clothes, it is supposed to represent Guy Fawkes.
• The tradition is called "Penny for the Guy". Kids used to take homemade Guy effigies on the street and try to get some money for the fireworks. In some parts of the world you can find kids that blackened their faces, a testament to what Guy Fawkes did when he was about to blow up the Parliament.
• Some of the biggest cities in the country have some of the largest firework displays. There are bonfires and amazing firework displays all over the country.

In the end

Every year, Bonfire Night continues, and has become a staple event.

It is a great time for people to connect, celebrate and eat amazing foods.

It’s certainly one of those events that have impressed people over the years.

Even if the origins of this event are a bit darker, there’s no denying that over the years Bonfire Night shifted towards being a more community-friendly event.

The most important parts of Bonfire Night are happiness and a good time, and we can expect this event to continue for many years to come!

Rotherhithe Bonfire Night Event

Date: 5th November 2022

Start Time: 6pm

Finish Time: 11pm

Address: Rotherhithe, London Borough of Southwark, London, Greater London, England, SE16 6AU, United Kingdom

Organiser: Rotherhithe Bonfire Night