You know your family best. So, when asking “How do you make a Bonfire Night special?”...it really comes down to your own preferences and interests. Today, we’ll go over the more traditional ideas for a kids party on Bonfire Night and some more out-of-the-box ones if they’re not really into flames and smoke.
Traditional Bonfire Night celebrations
Create a bonfire - Use natural, dry materials like branches and scrap wood to build a bonfire and set the scene with flickering flames. Don’t use anything other than wood like furniture, cabinetry or plastics, as they might be treated with harmful chemicals. Also, make sure that you have a clear area and parameters around the fire and above it for safety.
Use a fire pit - If you don't have space for a bonfire, a fire pit can add the right atmosphere but do it more safely. Provide blankets and seating so people can gather around and get cosy. Just be sure to put an ash guard up so clothing and chairs aren't damaged by hot ash carried on the wind.
Have a bonfire feast - Whip out the BBQ and serve food like hot dogs and sausages on skewers, roasted chicken drumsticks and grilled veggies. Don’t forget about the fun of roasting marshmallows and enjoying a hot cider or apple juice with festive spices.
Get sparkling - When they’re old enough, you could put on your own fireworks show, go see a local one or just hand out a few sparklers and let them practise writing their name and other cute messages in the sparks.
Unique ideas for Bonfire Night
Play nighttime games - Organise a Bonfire Night-themed treasure hunt with clues and riddles, play hide and go seek during dusk for extra spooky vibes or try glow-in-the-dark versions of games like bowling or ring toss.
Have a costume party - Have your family and guests come as characters related to the Gunpowder Plot like Guy Fawkes, members of parliament or King James I and give out prizes for the most funny, accurate and creative interpretations.
Get creative - You could take turns telling scary stories around the campfire or have a silent disco and jam to your favourite music streamed across multiple pairs of headphones. Really musically-inclined? Why not try to create your own campfire songs as a family?
Bring some stars in - If you’re in a place that has good access to the night sky and it won’t be too hazy from other people’s fireworks, you could try stargazing as a family with an app like these.
Go away for the weekend - Seeing the fireworks from the English countryside or coastline can be an incredible way to make Bonfire Night special.
How do you explain Bonfire Night to a child?
We have an amazing blog here with a retelling of the Bonfire Night story that’s appropriate for kids. You might print it out and use it for your next party. However, if they’re very young, you might not want to go into the Gunpowder Plot part. Instead, you can just say we celebrate something that happened a very long time ago where the King was saved from danger and leave it at that. Then, when they’re older, you can provide more context.
Want to keep the autumnal vibes going? If you’re looking for more fall party-planning ideas, why not try throwing Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at home this year? Click here!
