The smell of wood smoke and gunpowder, and the subsequent sounds of explosions in the sky—we are certainly in the lead-up to another Bonfire Night this year.
The annual tradition in modern times still harks back to the infamous Gunpowder Plot of 1605, where a group of provincial English Catholics, led by Robert Catesby, plotted to blow up the Houses of Parliament (the Palace of Westminster) in London. Their goal was to assassinate the Protestant King James I and the members of Parliament in hopes of clearing the way to establish Catholic rule in England.
One of the conspirators, Guy Fawkes, an explosives expert, was tasked with lighting the fuse on the cache of 36 barrels of gunpowder they had stashed in a cellar beneath the House of Lords, but the plot was discovered in the early hours of November 5, 1605, after an anonymous letter warned a Catholic member of Parliament to stay away. Guy Fawkes was discovered guarding the explosives and was arrested.
Those traditions extend not only to the huge bonfires taking place across Sheffield this year, but also to the burning of the effigy of “The Guy.” But rather than a celebration of foiling an anarchist, these days the event is a more family- and community-oriented gathering where traditional foods are eaten alongside those all-important, dazzling lightshows that take place above our heads this time of year.
So rather than juggle the Halloween/Bonfire Night/Christmas hassle yourself, why not check out some of Sheffield’s finest Bonfire Night events taking place this year? From the bombastic displays at Don Valley to a couple of events that are more subdued for those with frayed nerves already, here’s our pick of 13 you can start planning for this year—all in the name of community, and a touch of tradition too
5. Bonfire And Fireworks At The Old Horns Inn (November 5)
Celebrate Bonfire Night with stunning countryside views at The Old Horns Inn in High Bradfield. This popular pub hosts a classic community bonfire and fireworks event, offering a traditional, festive atmosphere away from the city centre crowds. 📍 The Old Horns Inn, High Bradfield, Sheffield, S6 6LG | Canva
6. Peddler Market Sheffield No. 99 (November 7 and 8)
While not strictly a bonfire event, the Peddler Market Sheffield No. 99 provides the perfect festival atmosphere for Bonfire Weekend! Enjoy an incredible array of street food, craft beer, cocktails, and great music in Sheffield's creative industrial quarter. A great alternative celebration. 📍 Peddler Warehouse, 92 Burton Rd, Sheffield S3 8BX | Provided
7. Illuminate the Gardens (November 7, 8 and 9)
Marvel at the magical Illuminate the Gardens event, a spectacular light and firework extravaganza at the beautiful Sheffield Botanical Gardens. Walk through glowing light installations and enjoy two firework displays (including a quieter one for children), a laser show, food, and fairground rides. 📍 Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Clarkehouse Rd, Sheffield, S10 2LN | SCC
8. Bonfire Night At The Three Merry Lads (November 7)
Join the local community for a spectacular evening at The Three Merry Lads for their Bonfire Night event. Expect a great atmosphere, a roaring bonfire, and a fantastic fireworks display that makes for a perfect local celebration. 📍 The Three Merry Lads, 610 Redmires Road, Sheffield, S10 4LJ | Canva