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: Thursday 5 November 200
Time: 7.230pm
Venue: Clapham Common, London SW4
Nearest tube station: Clapham Common
Admission free, donation suggested.
Date: Saturday 7 November 2009
Time: Bonfire: 7.30, Fireworks: 8pm
Venue: Battersea Park
Nearest train station: Battersea Park or Queenstown
A music and light display. Admission free, donation suggested.
Date: Saturday 7 November 2009
Time: German Beer Festival: from 4.30pm. Fireworks display: 7.30pm
Venue: Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, Wood Green, London N22 7AY
Nearest tube station: Wood Green
England's largest German Beer Festival, German drink and food, funfair.
Admission free, but suggested donation.
Lord Mayor's Show
Date: Saturday 14 November 2009
Time: 5pm
Venue: River Thames between Waterloo and Blackfriars bridges.
Nearest tube stations: Waterloo and Blackfriars
Admission free.
There are more fireworks displays across London but I have chosen these few as they are central and always good. If you are looking for more fireworks displays, check out the Visit London website.
