Remember, remember, the 5th of November,

Gunpowder, treason and plot.

I see no reason

Why gunpowder treason

Should ever be forgot.

Guy Fawkes, Guy Fawkes, 'twas his intent

To blow up the King and the Parliament

Three score barrels of powder below

Poor old England to overthrow

By God's providence he was catch'd

With a dark lantern and burning match

Holler boys, holler boys, let the bells ring

Holler boys, holler boys

God save the King!

 - John Milton, 1626.

 

Every year Harrogate RoundTable host an annual Bonfire and Firework Display on the Stray, which has been running for over 50 years. Organisers raise money to both fund the event and donate to a chosen charity. This year, it was sponsored by Ferrensby Fireworks, HACS, Techbuyer, Clarion Solicitors, Raworths, LAKE Financial Systems, Progress Consulting, and FTAV. Live entertainment is also provided alongside various food options. The event is perfect for all the family, with access being completely free.

 

This year, the chosen charity was Harrogate Homeless Project. Donations could be made online and at the event with bucket shakers being available. Last year the event was a huge success and, with generous donations from the public, the organisers managed to raise a total of £6,568.42 which was donated to Friends of Harrogate Hospital.

 

At the event, there was an outdoor stage with live entertainment being provided by Three Strikes, Harrogate Theatre Choir and The Directors. The public can sing along as loud as they want and children can dance as much as their heart desires. The music creates a sense of happiness and community for everyone.

 

Adjacent to the entertainment are different food stands. The scouts provided delicious burgers and hotdogs with delectable pizza also being available with vegan and gluten free options, making the food choices more widespread. Furthermore, this year for the first time there was a licensed bar as well.

 

The fireworks consisted of a radiant, vivid array of colours. From reds to greens, pinks to blues and golds to silvers. The display also contained various types of fireworks with some booming and exploding above the crowd and some being as quiet as a mouse without making any noise at all. The fireworks started off slow but ended with a bang. 12 year old Jacob Peacock said: “Fireworks are one of my favourite things. I enjoy watching them every year with each year getting better than the last.”

 

Harrogate’s Annual Bonfire Night and Firework Display is definitely one to see.