It’s a tradition that’s been around for more than 500 years.
As night falls on November 5, we gather with family and friends to stand around a blazing bonfire, send fireworks soaring into the dark skies and remember Guy Fawkes, the man who planned the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605 which aimed to blow up the Houses of Parliament.
It’s a tradition as British as a Sunday roast and a fantastic highlight of the autumn season that’s not to be missed. The best way to take part in the celebrations is by heading for an organised event. There are dozens of events taking place over the next week or so, but remember, not all of them take place on November 5 this year as that date lands on a Sunday.
Here’s a selection of what’s on offer. Remember, it’s always best to double check before heading out to an organised event as plans can change at the last minute due to weather conditions.
ABERDEEN
The much-loved fireworks display at Aberdeen Beach takes place on Sunday, November 5.
Not only will there be the fireworks, but entertainment such as a charity firewalk will take place from 6.30pm, before the main display at 7.30pm. Don’t worry about grabbing dinner before you head along as there will also be catering options.
Part of the Winter Festival celebrations, the fireworks fun will finish up at 9pm. Disabled parking for the bonfire night can be found at Urquhart Road and park and rides will be operating from Kingswells, Bridge of Don and Calder Park.
ABOYNE
Slightly later than some of the other areas, Aboyne will be celebrating on November 11 on Aboyne Green. Refreshments will be available a the event which starts with the lighting of the bonfire at 6pm before the fireworks at 7pm.
ALFORD
Alford Scouts are organising the bonfire and firework display at Grampian Transport Museum, Alford, on November 5. Gates will open at 6.30pm, and the bonfire will be lit at 7pm. Light snacks and refreshments will be on sale during the event and entry is free but there will be a collection bucket.
BRAEMAR
Watch the sky light up above the Mar Lodge Estate from 6pm to 8pm on November 3. Enter the Best Guy competition where the winning guy will be placed on the bonfire, ignited by a piped torch-lit procession. Food and refreshments will be available for sale and the event is free, but donations are welcome.
BANCHORY
Organised by the Banchory and District Round Table, the bonfire and fireworks event will take place on November 4. Held in George V Park, the bonfire will be at the west end with the fireworks at the east end of the park. Snacks available from 6.30pm and donations are welcome to support the event.
BALLATER
On November 4, fireworks will take place at 7pm at Monaltrie Park.
FRASERBURGH
The fireworks parade is a highlight of the night ahead of the fireworks display at 7.45pm. Adults entry costs £3 and, for children, £2.
Join a celebration in Aden Park as young people bursting with energy and enthusiasm create an extravaganza of delight. Leave plenty of time for parking and bring torches, wellies and dress up if you fancy.
INVERURIE
The Thainstone Centre hosts the annual community celebration, organised by Inverurie and District Round table. Gates open at 5.30pm on November 4 ahead of the fireworks at 7pm.
NEWMACHAR
November 11 at Charlie Gordon Park from 6.30pm, Newmachar will be shooting for the stars. The bonfire will be lit at 7pm ahead of the fireworks at 7.30pm. This event is pedestrian access only via Oldmeldrum Road. Disabled parking for bluebadge holders is available at the Newmachar Hotel.
OLDMELDRUM
The Pleasure Park will host the fireworks display in association with Oldmeldrum and Daviot Community Council and Making Meldrum Better. Hot and cold food and drinks will be available on November 4. There will be no entry charge but there will be collection buckets.
STONEHAVEN
Mineralwell Park is the place to be for the Stonehaven bonfire and fireworks display on November 5. Gates open from 6pm before the bonfire is lit at 6.30pm. Food and drink will be available and the fireworks kick off at 7pm. Entry costs £3 for adults, £1 for children.