Remember Remember the 5th of November…

November 5th gives us another occasion for fireworks!

Those of you with British ancestry may have heard of Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. The plot was as an attempt by a group of religious conspirators to kill King James I of England, his family, and most of the aristocracy by blowing up the House of Lords in the Palace of Westminster during the State Opening of Parliament. Guy Fawkes was put in charge of executing the plot because of his military and explosives background.

The plot ultimately failed shortly before its intended completion, as Fawkes was captured while guarding the gunpowder. Suspicion was aroused by his wearing a coat, boots and spurs, as if he intended to leave very quickly. Fawkes and his co-conspirators were found guilty of treason and were hung, drawn and quartered at the Old Palace Yard in Westminster. It has been recorded that Fawkes cheated the hangman by jumping from the scaffold and breaking his neck before he could be drawn and quartered.

To this day Guy Fawkes Day or Bonfire Night is celebrated throughout England and some parts of the Commonwealth to celebrate the capture of Fawkes and his gang. In 18th-century England, the term "guy" was used to refer to an effigy of Fawkes, which would be paraded around town by children on the anniversary of the conspiracy. It is traditional for children to stand on street corners with their creation asking for a small donation using the term "Penny for the guy" It was traditional for children to spend the money raised on fireworks, this is now illegal, as persons under 18 may not buy fireworks. However the tradition still stands and fireworks are used as a celebration annually on November 5th.

The Gunpowder plot has been referenced in many films, songs and books. In the 2005 film V for Vendetta starring Natalie Portman and Hugo Weaving was loosely based on the conspiracy and popularized the famous Guy Fawkes mask worn in the movie. You may have even caught references in episodes of The Simpsons and Dr.Who.

Remember, remember the Fifth of November,
The Gunpowder Treason and Plot to surrender,
I know of no reason
Why the Gunpowder Treason
Should ever be forgot.
Guy Fawkes, Guy Fawkes, t'was his intent
To blow up King and Parli'ment.
Three-score barrels of powder below
To prove old England's overthrow;
By God's providence he was catch'd
With a dark lantern and burning match.
Holloa boys, holloa boys, let the bells ring.
Holloa boys, holloa boys, God save the King!

Try adding some Mystical Fire to your bonfire. The brilliant blue, purple and green flames are incredible or if you want a little more excitement try one of our custom made packs this November 5th and let our fireworks experts put together a perfectly choreographed display for you to enjoy!