Monday 9 November 2009

Bonfire Night

I don't know if you all know about the British tradition of Bonfire Night on November 5th?


Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament but he was caught in the act. His punishment was to be hung, drawn and quartered. This punishment means that you are hanged until you are almost dead, you then had your limbs tied to four horses who pulled in different directions and while you were begging for mercy, your entrails would be taken out and you would be left to die....... nice!


Anyway, I digress! Each year we celebrate with the burning of the Guy on Bonfire Night. When I was a child, children used to make their own Guy then knock on doors asking for "penny for the Guy" - sadly this traditon has been taken over by trick or treating. On 5th November, the bonfire would be built and Guy stuck on top!


Last night we had a Bonfire and burnt the Guy at my friends house. She lives on the top of the mountains so there was nobody to disturb. OK, so it was a little late but it was raining on the actual day and cold, and miserable. It was such good fun. So cold though until the bonny really kicked in and then our faces were glowing with the heat. Alvin let off some lovely fireworks, the children enjoyed their sparklers and we all came home muddy, tired and thoroughly relaxed!

3 comments:

  1. I have never heard of this tradition. this is what is so cool about all the bloggers you meet. you learn so much and meet fantastic people in the process.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Sounds like fun! It's interesting to learn about customs around the world.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I remember Guy Fawkes and having a bonfire and making an effigy of him and burning him. I was actually born in England and moved to Canada when I was 12.It sounds like you had a nice time Sara.

    ReplyDelete

I value each and every comment left, they keep me going and give me strength!