Bonfire Night
Bonfire Night 2026 falls on Thursday 5 November. In 2027, Bonfire Night falls on Friday 5 November.
The dates of Bonfire Night, this year and in the years ahead.
When is Bonfire Night?
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Wednesday, 5 November 2025 |
| 2026 | Thursday, 5 November 2026 |
| 2027 | Friday, 5 November 2027 |
| 2028 | Sunday, 5 November 2028 |
| 2029 | Monday, 5 November 2029 |
| 2030 | Tuesday, 5 November 2030 |
| 2031 | Wednesday, 5 November 2031 |
Dates calculated from the statutory rules. Source: GOV.UK: UK bank holidays. More about our sources
Remember, remember the fifth of November
Bonfire Night, or Guy Fawkes Night, on 5 November marks the failure of the Gunpowder Plot in the early seventeenth century. A group of Catholic conspirators planned to blow up the Houses of Parliament during the State Opening and kill King James I. Guy Fawkes was caught guarding barrels of gunpowder in a cellar beneath the House of Lords.
To celebrate the King's survival, people lit bonfires, and Parliament soon made 5 November a day of thanksgiving. The tradition has continued ever since.
Bonfires and fireworks
Today, towns and villages across Great Britain hold firework displays and bonfires, often on the nearest weekend. Traditionally a 'guy', an effigy made from old clothes stuffed with newspaper, is burnt on the bonfire, and children once asked for a 'penny for the guy'. Toffee apples, parkin, baked potatoes and sparklers are part of the evening.
Bonfire Night is not a bank holiday. The rhyme 'Remember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot' is still widely known. Before the State Opening of Parliament, the cellars of the Palace of Westminster are still ceremonially searched.
Safety and the fireworks season
There are rules on when fireworks can be set off at night, with a later cut-off around Bonfire Night and New Year. Organised displays are often the safest choice and are kinder to pets, which can be frightened by the noise.
In 2026, 5 November falls on Thursday 5 November.
Frequently asked questions
When is Bonfire Night 2026?
In 2026, Bonfire Night falls on Thursday 5 November.
Is Bonfire Night a day off?
No, Bonfire Night is not a public holiday in the United Kingdom.
Who was Guy Fawkes?
One of the conspirators in the Gunpowder Plot. He was arrested guarding the gunpowder beneath the House of Lords.
Is Bonfire Night a bank holiday?
No. Bonfire Night is not a bank holiday; displays are often held on the nearest weekend.