Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night in 2023 is on Sunday 5th November, but there are many firework events taking place across the whole week and weekend throughout South East England. See our events calendar for a wealth of inspiration and ideas.

Counties covered include Hampshire, Sussex, Kent, Berkshire, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Isle of Wight and Dorset. There are plenty of things to do for the whole family and lot of entertainment for the kids.

Best Firework Displays in the South East

• November 3 2023, Fireworks Night at Danesfield House Hotel & Spa, Marlow, Buckinghamshire
  Danesfield House Hotel are again opening our doors to families and local residents of Marlow, Henley and surrounding villages for our annual Firework Night celebration.
• November 3 2023, Fireworks With Night Putting at Mannings Heath, Mannings Heath, West Sussex
  Join Mannings Heath As Sparks Of Colour Ignite The Night Sky - a spectacular fireworks display, live music, and a festive outdoor bar. The kids can play nights golf too! 
• November 4 2023, Fireworks Spectacular Family Raceday at Ascot Racecourse, Ascot, Berkshire
  The jumps season returns with a bang to Ascot as the skies are lit up at the annual fireworks spectacular.
• November 4 2023, Winchester Bonfire and Fireworks, Winchester, Hampshire
  The Winchester Round Table Bonfire & Fireworks event takes place in the heart of the UK's most special city
• November 4 2023, Night of Colours Fireworks at Royal Windsor Racecourse, Windsor, Berkshire
  This magical, kaleidoscopic night out is ideal for all the family and we want you all to dress up in as many bright colours as you possibly can.
• November 4-5 2023, Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular, Maidstone, Kent
  The biggest and best fireworks display in the South East of England returns for 2023 – the Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular!
• November 4-5 2023, Fireworks Spectacular at Kent Life, Maidstone, Kent
  Be amazed by fire performers as Kent Life countdowns their annual spectacular musical firework display. 
• November 5 2023, Fireworks Cruise, Poole, Dorset
  Join City Cruises, Poole for the best seats in the house as you sail through Europe's largest natural harbour past Brownsea Island, Sandbanks Peninsula, Millionaire's Row and more.
• November 5 2023, Broadstairs Family Firework Night, Broadstairs, Kent
  Head along to Viking Bay, open from 6pm with fireworks at 8pm, free to visit.
• Novbember 18 2023 Robertsbridge Bonfire Night, Robertsbridge, 1066 Country, East Sussex
  The Robertsbridge Bonfire Procession and Fireworks ensure that the Sussex Bonfire season goes out with a bang in 1066 Country.

What is Bonfire Night and who is Guy Fawkes?

Also known as Guy Fawkes Night, the event originates from the failed Gunpowder plot of 1605 and has been marked in Great Britain for more than 400 years. Arrested guarding explosives intended to assassinate the King, Guy Fawkes became synonymous with the plot and it’s his effigy associated with the phrase ‘penny for the guy’.

To celebrate the survival of King James I, bonfires were lit across across London and an Act of Parliament was passed calling of an annual thanksgiving. Although its connection with politics and religion has dwindled throughout the years, the numerous events taking place in South East England show the celebrations to be as popular as ever.

Fireworks Safety

If attending a display, ensure that Bonfire Night passes safely and without incident by following fireworks safety tips as set out by event teams. When buying fireworks for your own party, look out for the British Standard Kitemark BS7114.

List of Firework Displays near me

Check out our hand picked favourites from the world of twitter or find something near you by clicking the 'map view' button below.