Welcome to this late September edition of our newsletter. With the main Summer event season coming to a close we now have to think about plans for this Autumn's bonfire events and firework displays which are suddenly not that far off. Over past years we have focused mainly on safety and planning but although very important topics we shall look this year at ideas to attract and get the public interacting with your bonfire event or firework displays.

Why do we hold bonfire night annually
For those of you who did not pay proper attention in their history lessons we celebrate bonfire night to remember the discovery of the gunpowder plot to kill the king by blowing up the Houses of Parliament on November 5th 1605 and the arrest of Guy Fawkes, the man in charge of executing the plot.
So it seems logical to theme your event with 17th Century fancy dress, food and related activities that are easy for event goers to join in with.  

Guy Fawkes a dastardly character

A black cloak, big pointed hat and large nose for those that want to play the baddie or for those on the royals and parliament side a dashing King James outfit with big hat and feathers. Apart from holding the usual best dressed Guy to burn on your fire competition local schools and children's groups fancy dress competitions are a great way to interact. Fancy dress can also be great at private bonfire parties, ladies will love the period dresses.

Gun powder packed into barrels
Barrel rolling and stacking competitions for local teams simulating placing the gunpowder under the houses of parliament. You could use obstacles or have opposite teams throwing wet sponges to prevent getting the bags of gunpowder (sand) into barrels in the shortest time etc. Another possible use of traditional empty wooden beer barrels is to set up activity stalls, lucky dip, hook a fish, apple bobbing or stand on end for selling refreshments etc.

Celebrate the failure of the gunpowder plot
For a great ending to your bonfire event hold a ticket only under cover themed Bonfire Ball with traditional food in the form of a great hog roast,  drinks, music and 17th century dancing. Complete the evening with a fantastic firework display by a professional firework display company.
Our suggestions are to give you ideas
Look at our suggestions, if and where practical adapt them to fit in with your bonfire event. If you need any help sourcing services give us a call on 0845 226 7373 or use our free email service. We are more than happy to help.