Why do we gather every November 5 to watch spectacular, colorful firework displays fill the night sky with noise and light?
Across the UK, these annual celebrations commemorate the collapse of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot, when Guy Fawkes and his fellow conspirators were thwarted in their attempt to destroy the Houses of Parliament.
To mark the occasion, families and local communities build massive bonfires in open fields, parks, and back gardens. It is a tradition for children to build a "guy", a life-sized effigy made from old clothes, newspapers, and tights – which is set atop the fire and burned.
Much has changed, it’s much better (and far safer) to attend properly organised Bonfire events nowadays.
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These nostalgic pictures capture everything from classic Guy Fawkes contests and neighbourhood bonfires in community parks to sweet treats like toffee apples and the popular modern ‘After Dark’ spectacles.
Spanning six decades, the collection highlights celebrations from the 1960s right up to recent years.
Can you see anyone you recognise?
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Bonfire Night at Norfolk Park, Sheffield - 5th November 1985 | Johnston Press

6. Safety first
Pictured at the Sheffield Arena, where the DTI Firework Safety Campaign focused on sparklers after last years injury statistics showed the sparkler to be responsible for a lot of injuries. They are asking people to put gloves on when holding sparklers. Seen are Steelers net minders Grant Sjerven, and Jim Hibbert with their gloves, along with firemen John Ruane and Paul Betsworth, and sisters Jesseca Laxdal and Jaime Laxdel, October 26, 1998

7. Be wise
Sheffield Wednesday players Derek Geary (right) and Leon Knight give out a firework saftey message at Hillsborough, pictured with Greg Ward (left) Sheffield Trading Standards Officer, October 28, 2002
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Sheffield's Botanical Gardens Light up the Garden event for Bonfire Night friends and family wrapping up against the cold

