A Guide to Bonfire Night in Edinburgh 2018!
“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!
Fireworks and events in Edinburgh to celebrate Bonfire Night!
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! Sadly, with Meadowbank Stadium under redevelopment, their annual fireworks display isn’t on this year and the ever-popular Hopetoun House Fireworks display has already sold out! However, no need to fret, there are still plenty great ways to celebrate. To help you decide what to do and we’ve put together a guide to enjoying Bonfire Night in Edinburgh.
1. SLA Fireworks Extravaganzas
- When & Cost: 2nd & 4th November (£8)
- 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. Unfortunately, The Blue Show has already sold out but The Red Show starts at 7.00pm at Myreside and the Green Show starts at 7.00pm at Goldenacre.
2. The Big Explosion
- When & Cost: 3rd November at 10.30am-12.30 pm or 1.30pm – 3.30pm (Free)
- Where: Museum of Childhood
Fancy something slightly different? Inspired by all the stories of Bonfire Night, join artist Melanie Ross in the Museum to experiment with different textures and mixed media to create beautiful bonfire and firework pictures telling us the story of Guy Fawkes.
2. Haddington Torchlight Procession and Fireworks
- When & Cost: 3rd November at 6.30pm (£5 torch and entry and £2 for entry only)
- Where: Whittingehame Drive
Despite being slightly out of the city, Haddington’s torchlight procession and fireworks sound like great fun! You have the option to take part in the procession or simply watch, then enjoy the fireworks display! Gates open at 6.30pm with kids rides, inflatables, hot food, ice cream, glow in the dark items to look forward too.
3. Currie, Balerno and District Round Table Fireworks Display
- When & Cost: 5th November – gates opening at 6.30pm (£4)
- Where: George V Park in Currie
Next, Currie’s annual fireworks display, organised by the Currie, Balerno and District Round Table (CBDRT), is described by many as one of the best local events of the season – and all the ‘profit’ generated goes to support local events and good causes. This year the fun will start when the gates open at 6.30pm and there’ll be food on sale from Sandy’s Thriepmuir Lamb burger van along with glow-sticks and bracelets on sale!
4. Tweak_ Bonfire Night at SKYbar: Secret Special Guest
- When & Cost: 5th November – 5pm-1am, last entry at 6pm (£15 Early Bird & £20 Normal)
- Where: Doubletree by Hilton SKYbar
Looking to celebrate Bonfire Night in style? Head along to the SKYbar’s intimate rooftop location. There will be a secret special guest DJ play all while you enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh on Bonfire Night. Expect plenty of fireworks!
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!
Planning on visiting Edinburgh? We have the perfect home away from home for you!
We love this home at 15/3 South Charlotte Street – there’s a beguiling, luxurious sense of seductive fun about it. The sitting room is a space you’ll want to linger in as there are four windows looking onto Charlotte Square, three comfy sofas, a huge TV with Netflix and a dining table to seat 6 comfortably. Both bedrooms are located at the back of the building and so they are quiet. It’s also in a fabulous, central location!
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