Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night History

Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605. This is when a group of Catholic conspirators, including Guy Fawkes, attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate King James I of England. Key aspects of the observance include the lighting of bonfires, setting off fireworks, and in some cases, burning effigies of Guy Fawkes.

The tradition of Bonfire Night has its roots in the immediate aftermath of the Gunpowder Plot, when Londoners were encouraged to light bonfires to celebrate the foiling of the attack on the monarchy and Parliament. Bonfire Night was celebrated in many Canadian communities during the pre-confederation era, with early settlers and British loyalists continuing the tradition. Today, Bonfire Night remains a symbol of British cultural heritage for many Canadians of British descent.

Bonfire Night is observed by some communities as a local tradition and an opportunity to come together. Although it is not a widely recognized national event, smaller-scale celebrations can be found in various communities across the country. These gatherings typically involve bonfires, informal firework displays, and sharing the historical context of the event with younger generations. Events may take place on or around November 5th, the traditional date of the observance in the United Kingdom.

Bonfire Night Facts

• Guy Fawkes smuggled in 36 barrels of gunpowder to the rented house next to the House of Parliament. According to physicists, the 2,500kg of gun powder would've destroyed 500m of the surrounding area.
• A common tradition is to search the cellars of the House of Parliament before the state opening each year. The Yeomen of the Guard perform a ceremonial check as a reference to the gunpowder plot 400 years ago.
• Effigies of Guy Fawkes, also called guys, are sometimes created and burned during the bonfire as part of the celebration.
• Bonfire Night commemorations once included a re-enactment of the Battle of the Torbay, which took place in Newfoundland in 1762. The re-enactment featured a mock naval battle and fireworks display.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night Top Events and Things to Do

• Attend a parade. There are usually firework displays to celebrate the day. The fireworks represent the explosives that were never used by the culprits.
• Attend a bonfire. A common tradition is to toss straw dummies onto bonfires as they represent Guy Fawkes.
• Attend a public bonfire. Check local event listings for details.
• You can visit British-themed pubs or restaurants in Canadian cities to enjoy British cuisine and camaraderie around Bonfire Night.