In London and in the UK in general, we have a passion for fireworks (pyrotechnics) at this time of year. Halloween isn't really our thing, although more and more children's costumes are going on sale these days. We look forward to November 5th when we commemorate Guy Fawkes's attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament with barrels of gunpowder in 1605, with King James I inside. He was caught before he could do any damage and was duly executed shortly after.
We remember this date with the nursery rhyme:Remember, remember, the 5th of November
Gunpowder, treason, and plot
I know of no reason why Gunpowder Treason
Should ever be forgot
Children make a 'Guy' from old clothes stuffed with newspaper and a paper/material head which they plan to burn on a bonfire on November 5th. They try to collect money by wheeling the 'Guy' around in a pram or wheelbarrow asking for "a penny for the Guy". Adults give money depending on how good the 'Guy' looks. Traditionally, the money collected would be spent on sparklers (hand-held fireworks) but nowadays children are not allowed to buy fireworks so they probably go to McDonald's with the proceeds.
Although you will see shops selling fireworks springing up everywhere in London throughout October, it is not recommended to buy fireworks as they are dangerous and every year serious injuries occur. The best idea is to attend an organized firework display, such as the ones listed below. You can't rival an organized display as they spend a fortune on pyrotechnics and most are free to attend.
Recommended Free Firework Displays
Date: Friday 2 November 2007
Time: 7.25pm
Venue: Clapham Common, London SW4
Nearest tube station: Clapham Common
Admission free, donation suggested.
Date: Saturday 3 November 2007
Time: 7.30pm
Venue: Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, Wood Green, London N22 7AY (tel: 020 8365 2121)
Nearest tube station: Wood Green
Admission free, donation suggested.
Date: Saturday 3 November 2007
Time:7.30pm
Venue:Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, Wood Green, London N22 7AY
Nearest tube station: Wood Green
Free, but suggested donation: Adults £2, Kids: £1.50
Date: Saturday 3 November 2007
Times: Fireworks from 7.30pm
Address: Victoria Park (Grove Road entrance), London, E3
Nearest tube station: Mile End
Buses:
- Take the 277 – Victoria Park
- 339, 8 and D6 – get off at Grove Road junction with Roman Road
- 338 get off at Grove Road junction with Victoria Park Road
- 25 get off at Mile End station
You'll see a 'tiger' that's 6 meters long and 3 meters tall walking and roaring and accompanied by dancers! That sounds like a fun night already, but expect to hear an original soundtrack and see special effects to help animate the story of the Moghul Emperor, the Wise Man, and the Guardian of the Jungle (the Tiger) before the firework finale lights up the skies.
Organizers: Tower Hamlets Council Arts and Events
Note: No glass bottles or fireworks to be brought into the park.
Lord Mayor's Show
Date: Saturday 10 November 2007
Time: 5pm
Venue: River Thames between Waterloo and Blackfriars bridges.
Nearest tube stations: Waterloo and Blackfriars
