Bonfire Night Edinburgh 2015

“Remember remember the fifth of November
Gunpowder, treason and plot.
I see no reason why gunpowder, treason
Should ever be forgot…”

Who was Guy Fawkes & what was the Gunpowder Plot?

On the 5th November 1605, Guy Fawkes was caught in the cellars of the Houses of Parliament with several dozen barrels of gunpowder. Guy Fawkes was subsequently tried as a traitor with his co-conspirators for plotting against the government. Fawkes was sentenced to death and was hung, drawn and quartered.

The Tradition begins…

The following year, in 1606, it became customary for the King and Parliament to commission a sermon to commemorate the event. Lancelot Andrews delivered the first of many Gunpowder Plot Sermons. This practice, together with the nursery rhyme and quote, ensured that this crime would never be forgotten! Hence the words to the quote:

“Remember, remember the 5th of November”…

The quote and poem is sometimes referred to as ‘Please to remember the fifth of November’. It serves as a warning to each new generation that treason will never be forgotten. In England the 5th of November is still commemorated each year with fireworks and bonfires culminating with the burning of effigies of Guy Fawkes (the guy) and people chanting the quote of “Remember remember the 5th of November”. The ‘guys’ are made by children by filling old clothes with crumpled newspapers to look like a man. Tradition allows British children to display their ‘guys’ to passers-by and asking for “A penny for the guy”.

Thursday, 5 November

Meadowbank Annual Fireworks Display in Edinburgh, 6:30pm

Enjoy breath taking fireworks from award winning 21cc with music spanning the 45 years Meadowbank has been around, 1970 -2015.

Saturday, 7 November

Hopetoun House in South Queensferry, 6:00pm

Building on Hopetoun’s established reputation for putting on one of the biggest and most spectacular fireworks displays in West Lothian this year’s celebrations will certainly not disappoint! Taking place against a backdrop of Hopetoun House this wonderful family friendly event also includes a fun selection of pre-show entertainment, fantastic food stalls and a huge bonfire to keep everyone nice and warm. The evening concludes with a grand finale of fireworks set to music which is once again designed and choreographed by the award winning team at 21CC Fireworks.

Our favourite Bonfire Night Edinburgh 2015 vantage points

Carlton Hill – Carlton Hill usually offers a good view of fireworks, although remember to wrap up as it might be a bit blustery up there

Arthur’s Seat – As one of the best viewpoints in the city, Arthur’s Seat will provide you with a great view of free fireworks. Once again, it might be a bit chilly up there, so remember to wrap up!

Happy Bonfire Night!

Where are you going this Bonfire Night? Don’t forget to send in your photos on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram and tag us using #WhatTheDickins.