Bonfire Night: History, Meaning & Fun Learning Activities

Queen Cassiopeia
Oct 31
2 min read

Every year on 5th November, families across the UK gather around crackling fires, watch fireworks burst in the night sky, and enjoy toffee apples and sparklers. But why do we celebrate Bonfire Night, and how can you turn this tradition into a fun, educational experience at home?

The History Behind Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, dates back to 1605, when a man named Guy Fawkes and a group of conspirators attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament. Their goal was to kill King James I and replace him with a Catholic monarch.

The event, known as the Gunpowder Plot, was discovered before it could succeed. Guy Fawkes was caught guarding barrels of gunpowder in the cellars beneath Parliament.

To celebrate the king’s survival, people lit bonfires across London. The custom soon spread throughout the country, becoming an annual event. Even today, over 400 years later, we still mark the 5th of November with bonfires, fireworks, and the burning of effigies known as “Guys.”

Learning Opportunities for Homeschoolers

Bonfire Night is a brilliant chance to blend history, science, and creativity in your home education. Here are some engaging activity ideas:

1. History and Research

Read a child-friendly version of the Gunpowder Plot story.
Create a timeline showing key events from 1605.
Discuss the difference between fact and legend — how do we know what really happened?

2. STEM: The Science of Fireworks

Learn about the chemistry of colours in fireworks — different metals produce different colours (e.g., copper = blue, sodium = yellow).
Try a simple, safe colour experiment using food colouring and baking soda “rockets.”
Talk about fire safety and why fireworks must be handled by adults.

3. Literacy and Art

Write a short poem or newspaper article from the perspective of someone in 1605.
Design your own “Wanted” poster for Guy Fawkes.
Create a bonfire collage using warm colours, tissue paper, and paint.

4. Maths Fun

Count and compare firework bursts, estimate distances, or explore simple symmetry with sparkler drawings.
Use the date (5/11/1605) for a fun date maths challenge — e.g., how many years ago was the Gunpowder Plot?

5. Cultural Reflection

Talk about why we remember events like this and how traditions change over time.
Compare Bonfire Night with other festivals of light, such as Diwali or Hanukkah.

6. Traditional Treats to Try

Why not add some seasonal cooking to your lesson plan?

Toffee apples or bonfire toffee are perfect for a bit of home economics.
Roast marshmallows or jacket potatoes over a small fire pit (safely, with supervision!).

Final Thoughts

Bonfire Night is more than just fireworks — it’s a piece of living history and a wonderful opportunity for children to explore British heritage through hands-on learning. With a little creativity, you can turn 5th November into an exciting cross-curricular day that your children will remember for years to come.