5 essential things you need for the perfect Bonfire Night

1st Galaxy Fireworks Bonfire Night

Not long now! Bonfire Night is nearly upon us, so now’s the time to start planning your special night. If you’re having an event at home, here are the 5 essentials you need for the perfect party…

  1. Fireworks!

We wouldn’t be 1st Galaxy Fireworks if we didn’t put fabulous fireworks at the very top of this list. A bonfire is great, but Guy Fawkes Night is nothing without an amazing display of light, colour and special effects to delight young and old alike. If you have pets, remember that they don’t tend to like fireworks so arrange for them to stay at a friend or family’s members for the evening.

As for which ones to choose, make sure you have the classics – cakes, rockets and Catherine wheels.  If you don’t know which ones to go for, consult one of the team at 1st Galaxy or choose a display pack containing a number of different fireworks designed to last a certain amount of time.

  1. The ‘bonny’

While fireworks are an important part of any 5th November celebrations, a crackling bonfire is essential. However, it isn’t as easy as you may think to get one lit and to keep it going. It can be very disappointing, as well as a bit smoky, for your guests if the fire keeps going out. You’ll need dry wood, dry ground, lots of kindling, logs and plenty of space. Set up your bonfire a safe distance away from spectators and fireworks, using something like wood pallets as the base as they allow air to circulate. Avoid using any sort of accelerant to light your bonfire, just have patience and tend it carefully. Keep children away and have a fire extinguisher on hand to stop your fire getting out of control. Lastly, keep it small – you don’t need a huge fire for a small party.

  1. A guy

It’s only tradition to have some sort of ‘guy’ or effigy to burn on the bonfire towards the end of the night, so set the kids to work on making one in time for the big night.

  1. Sparklers

These fantastically fizzy fireworks are great fun, but you must use them carefully. They burn hotter than you’d imagine, so children must always be supervised and sparklers should be kept away from the bonfire. Never put them in pockets, keep them away from eyes and always make sure they are extinguished properly when the sparkle has fizzed out.

  1. Warming comfort food and hot drinks

There’s nothing better to warm the cockles on a chilly autumn night than a mug of sweet hot chocolate, or a mulled wine if you aren’t the one in charge of the fireworks or bonfire. Pair this with hot dogs, burgers, baked jacket potatoes or hot soup, while the kids enjoy some cotton candy or toffee apples for that fairground feeling (even if you’re holding your Bonfire Night party at home). Remember though, you should never ever use fireworks or tend a bonfire if you’ve had alcohol – safety first!