Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, is marked across the United Kingdom every year on the evening of 5th November. The tradition commemorates the failure of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot, an attempt by Guy Fawkes and a group of Catholic conspirators to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate King James I.
To mark the occasion, towns, villages, and community parks often construct towering wooden bonfires, which are set alight once darkness falls. This typically coincides with firework displays and handheld sparklers. However, some people choose to hold their own celebrations at home, with smaller bonfires or firework displays.
Three essential checks for bonfire builders
Those planning a bonfire this evening have been urged to carry out three essential checks to help protect wildlife, such as hedgehogs, from harm. Southampton-based Manor Farm shared a post on its Instagram page issuing the warning, writing: "As Bonfire Night approaches, @thehedgehogsociety is encouraging everyone to #RememberHedgehogs and follow three simple steps: stop, move, check."
A little extra care can make a big difference for hedgehogs and other wildlife seeking shelter at this time of year. "Before you light it, check it."
Hedgehog Society advice
The Hedgehog Society also shared its own Instagram post on the matter, writing: "This Bonfire Night, don't forget about hedgehogs!" "Before lighting your bonfire, make sure you're taking steps to keep hedgehogs safe."
The organisation warned that hedgehogs frequently seek refuge inside bonfires if they are constructed ahead of time. It added: "Instead of a bonfire, why not turn your garden waste in to a bug hotel?" They noted that this also makes for an enjoyable activity for children while attracting insects that serve as a food source for hedgehogs.
Bonfire events across Wales
There are several major Bonfire Night and fireworks celebrations happening across Wales tonight. Sophia Gardens Cricket Ground in Cardiff hosts Sophiaworks, widely considered Cardiff's premier Bonfire Night showcase. Set within the cricket stadium grounds, it draws large crowds each year for an organised, music-accompanied fireworks extravaganza.
Parc Singleton Park in Swansea is home to the official Swansea Council Fireworks Display, offering one of the largest civic celebrations in South Wales. Parc Belgrave Park in Abergavenny stages the Abergavenny Fireworks Extravaganza, an established favourite organised by the local Round Table.
At Penrhos Beach Road in Holyhead, Anglesey, locals and visitors gather right along the coast for the traditional Holyhead Bonfire Night. Beach Road Football Pitch in Bangor is the venue for the Bangor City Council Fireworks, offering a major free gathering in Gwynedd.
