Bonfire Night Edinburgh 2017
“Remember Remember The Fifth of November
Gunpowder, Treason, and Plot”
Bonfire Night is nearly upon us and for those of you who aren’t familiar with the term, it’s a beloved – albeit rather odd – tradition we celebrate here in Britain. It all began on the 5th of November 1605, when a plot by a group of Catholics to kill the Protestant King James I and blow up the Parliament building was foiled. Despite some members of the group leaving, when they realised the magnitude of damage the explosion would cause, Guy Fawkes was determined to carry out the plan, and subsequently, was caught by authorities in the cellar of the Parliament with thirty-six barrels of gunpowder. On the very night of the failed plot, bonfires were lit to celebrate the safety of the King. Ever since bonfires and fireworks annually light up the night sky on the 5th of November as a reminder that treason will never be forgotten!
The Best Places to Watch the Fireworks in Edinburgh
If you’re in Edinburgh you have several great organised displays to choose from, or you could opt to watch the fireworks for free from a good vantage point! To help you decide, we’ve put together a guide to enjoying Bonfire Night in Edinburgh.
1. Meadowbank Fireworks Display
- When & Cost: 5 November 2017 at 6pm (£7)
- Where: Meadowbank Stadium
For the last 30 years, Meadowbank Fireworks has been the largest and longest running display in Edinburgh, and is very popular amongst locals! This year the fireworks will be accompanied by a Sci-Fi theme.
2. Hopetoun House
- When & Cost: 4 November 2017 at 4pm (£15)
- Where: Hopetoun House, South Queensferry
Looking for something a little grander? Hopetoun House has the reputation for organising the biggest and most spectacular fireworks display in West Lothian, and with the beautiful stately home as a backdrop, it’s quite a sight to behold. This year’s theme is “Fire and Ice” and is sure to not disappoint!
3. SLA Fireworks Extravaganzas
- When & Cost: 3 & 5 November 2017 (7.50)
- Where: Various Locations Discussed Below
Fancy enjoying the fireworks while helping a good cause? This year, Scottish Love in Action (SLA) charity has organised three displays: the Blue, the Green, and the Red shows. The Blue Show starts at 4.30pm at George Watson’s Rugby Ground. The Red Show starts at 7.00pm at George Watson’s Rugby Ground. Lastly, the Green Show starts at 7.00pm at George Heriot’s Playing Fields.
4. Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is a popular vantage point amongst locals to watch the various fireworks displays across the city for free. To catch one of the organised shows mentioned above, check times and viewing direction to get the best view. If you choose this option, beware that it will be dark and the pathway can be treacherous at certain points, so be careful! Also, it’s almost guaranteed to be chilly so remember to wrap up warmly and consider bringing a warm flask and blanket!
5. Calton Hill
Calton Hill is another popular spot to enjoy the fireworks, particularly as it is easier and safer to reach than Arthur’s Seat. We’d also recommend bringing a cosy blanket and arrive early, as it gets busy very quickly!
Happy Bonfire Night!
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