Plans for spectacular firework displays and parties are well under way around the region
‘Remember, remember the fifth of November gunpowder, treason and plot, I see no reason why gunpowder treason should ever be forgot.’ It’s a rhyme that has been popular with generations of schoolchildren at this time of year and of course the deeds of one of York’s most infamous sons, Guy Fawkes, and his co-conspirators have certainly not been forgotten. More than 400 years later their failed attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament is still commemorated with fireworks and bonfires upon which effigies of poor old Fawkes are burned, although not at St Peter’s School in York where, unsurprisingly, it’s considered bad form to throw an old boy on to the fire. There are community firework displays around the region to enjoy. Here are a few of them and remember to follow the firework safety code and don’t return to a lit firework, oh and keep family pets safely indoors.
York: York is the obvious place to look for a grand fireworks display and you wouldn’t be disappointed if you headed for nearby illuminated Castle Howard on Saturday November 1st where organisers of Kaboom are rolling together Halloween celebrations and a Bonfire Night extravaganza. The event also coincides with the finale of the Illuminating York Festival. There’s a programme of family entertainment including freaky fire-glow jugglers, a spooky Sparkler Park for children, spine tingling story-telling for junior ghost busters, pumpkin carving and many more ghoulish goings-on including appearances by headless horsemen and the ghost of Guy Fawkes. There will also be a ‘Fright Night’ funfair and the chance to tuck into traditional Halloween and bonfire night goodies. Tickets are priced at £12.50 for adults and £10.00 for children, under-16s, students and senior citizens. Tickets can be bought in advance via websites kaboomyork.com or castlehoward.co.uk and at the Visit York Information Centre, Museum Street, York. Parking is free parking at the event and transport from York city centre to Castle Howard is also be available.
Sheffield: After Dark Fireworks Spectacular, Don Valley Grass Bowl, Sheffield, Wednesday, November 5th. The show includes a giant fun fair, a bonfire of course, food stalls, a live music stage with Real Radio and a spectacular fireworks display set to music. Call the ticket hotline 0114 256 5656
Huddersfield: Pendragon Charity Bonfire and Firework Display, Saturday, November 1st. Huddersfield Pendragon Round Table is undoubtedly known for its Bonfire & Firework Display at Crosland Hill - the biggest and the best in Huddersfield. Find out more at huddersfield-pendragonroundtable.co.uk
Scarborough: Scarborough Lions’ annual bonfire and firework display on Wednesday, November 5th with all proceeds going to the Lions’ charities. Traditional bonfire food will be served including hot dogs and burgers at Weaponess Car and Coach Park, Weaponess Valley Road, Scarborough. Call 01723 384364 for more information.
Leeds: Bonfire Night, Roundhay Park, Leeds, Wednesday, November 5th .Thousands of people are expected to gather at Roundhay Park to enjoy Leeds’ biggest bonfire and fireworks event. Admission is free. The Bonfire is lit at 7.30 pm with fireworks from 8pm. Go to roundhaypark.org.uk for the latest information.
Wetherby: Firework Spectacular at Stockeld Park, near Wetherby, on Sunday, November 2nd with fireworks set to music from 5.30pm. Check stockeldpark.co.uk for details of entry price.
Hornsea: Hornsea Freeport Bonfire Party on Sunday, November 2nd including rides, stalls and fireworks of course and a chance of some late night shopping perhaps. Go to hornseafreeport.com for more information.
