Communities across Merseyside are preparing for Bonfire Night with a series of organised fireworks displays and events scheduled throughout late October and early November. Venues from St Helens to Southport are offering a range of activities, including live entertainment, funfairs, and food stalls, providing numerous options for residents to celebrate the occasion.
Key Takeaways
- Ten major organised fireworks displays are scheduled across Merseyside, including events in Warrington, Southport, St Helens, and Wirral.
- Events offer more than just fireworks, with many including funfairs, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
- Dates for the events span from late October to early November, offering flexibility for attendees around the traditional November 5th date.
- Several events are ticketed, and organisers recommend booking in advance due to high demand.
Sefton Coast Fireworks and Festivals
The Sefton area will host several notable events, from themed festivals to traditional club displays, offering diverse experiences for families and individuals.
Adventure Coast Day of the Dead Festival
Southport's Adventure Coast is set to host a unique Day of the Dead themed festival over three separate nights. The event is inspired by Mexico’s Día de los Muertos and promises a blend of light, music, and performance.
Attendees can expect to see stilt walkers, fire performers, and the Batala drummers. Stage shows are also planned to run alongside the park's rides. Each evening will conclude with a significant firework finale. The festival takes place on Friday, November 7, and Saturdays, November 1 and 8. Gates will open at 4:30 pm, with shows and rides starting from 5:00 pm.
Southport Rugby Club Extravaganza
Southport Rugby Club will hold its annual Fireworks Extravaganza on Friday, October 31. The event will be hosted by Mighty Radio, with a live broadcast from the venue. A festival village will feature attractions such as bouncy castles, a giant slide, and other children's rides and games.
Food and drink options will include a barbecue and pizza stalls. Organisers advise booking tickets in advance, though a limited number may be available at the gate. Gates open at 6:00 pm, with the main fireworks display scheduled for approximately 8:00 pm.
Hightown Cricket Club Bonfire
On Wednesday, November 5, Hightown Cricket Club will host its annual Bonfire and Fireworks night at its Thirlmere Road location. The event will begin with fire dancing performances when gates open at 6:30 pm. A traditional bonfire will be lit at 7:15 pm, followed by the main fireworks display at 7:30 pm. Hot food, including a barbecue, and various family activities will also be available.
The Tradition of Bonfire Night
Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, is a British tradition commemorating the failure of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. On November 5th of that year, a group of conspirators, including Guy Fawkes, attempted to assassinate King James I by blowing up the House of Lords. The plot was foiled, and Fawkes was discovered guarding barrels of gunpowder in the cellars. Celebrations involving bonfires and fireworks have been held annually ever since to mark the King's survival.
St Helens and Warrington Family Events
Major venues in St Helens and Warrington are preparing for large-scale events that combine fireworks with extensive family entertainment.
Totally Wicked Stadium Laser and Light Show
For the fourth consecutive year, the Totally Wicked Stadium in St Helens will host its 'From The Ground Comes Light!' event on Wednesday, November 5. The evening features a combination laser light and pyrotechnics display. Before the main show, there will be live entertainment from local dancers and musicians, a DJ set, and children's activities like face painting and inflatables. Tickets are currently on sale, with specific start times to be announced closer to the date.
Fireworks Spectacular at Gulliver’s World
Gulliver’s World Theme Park in Warrington will hold its Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday, November 1. The event allows visitors to enjoy the theme park's usual attractions and entertainment with extended opening hours from 10:30 am to 6:30 pm. The fireworks display is scheduled to take place at approximately 6:15 pm, concluding the day's activities.
Safety at Public Displays
According to Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, attending organised displays is significantly safer than using fireworks at home. Professionals manage the displays, ensuring proper safety distances and procedures are followed, which greatly reduces the risk of injuries and property damage.
Liverpool, Knowsley, and Wirral Displays
Several community clubs and schools across Liverpool, Knowsley, and Wirral are also organising their own Bonfire Night celebrations.
Liverpool College PTA Fireworks Bonanza
The Parent Teacher Association at Liverpool College is organising a Fireworks Bonanza on Friday, November 7. The event will feature a professional fireworks display as its finale. Before the display, attendees can enjoy food stalls, a bar, games, a bouncy castle, and a tombola. Doors open at 5:00 pm, with last entry at 7:00 pm. The fireworks are planned for around 7:30 pm.
Prescot and Odyssey Cricket Club
This club's annual firework event is scheduled for Saturday, November 1. In addition to the fireworks display, the evening will include funfair rides, children's stalls, music, and various food and drink options. Gates open at 5:30 pm, with the fireworks expected between 7:00 pm and 7:30 pm.
Moreton Hills Golf Centre
On the Wirral, Moreton Hills Golf Centre will host its Bonfire & Fireworks Night on Saturday, November 1. The event includes funfair rides and axe throwing provided by Timber Jacks. Doors open at 4:00 pm. The bonfire is scheduled to be lit between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm, with a professional fireworks display at 8:00 pm.
Corner House Bonanza in Birkenhead
The Corner House Family and Community Hub CIC is hosting a 'Bonfire Night Bonanza' at Birkenhead Rugby Club on Sunday, November 2. This ticket-only event will feature a light and laser show, followed by low-noise fireworks, before building up to a louder main display. The event runs from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
Ormskirk Cricket Club Display
Ormskirk Cricket Club has confirmed its Bonfire and Fireworks Night will return this year on Saturday, November 8. While full details have not yet been released, previous events have included food, drink, and entertainment alongside the fireworks. Those interested are advised to monitor the club's Facebook page for updates.