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Posted Nov. 2, 2016

The International Postgrad Student Way To Celebrate Bonfire Night

Postgrad Bonfire NightIn can be a daunting experience arriving in a foreign country to complete your postgrad studies. The differences in culture and certain traditions can feel alienating, which is why it's important to familiarise yourself with your city, and immerse yourself in British celebrations such as Bonfire Night. Unlike Halloween, Bonfire Night is a decidedly British affair. Its origins lie in the failed attempt by a group of vigilantes to blow up the Houses of Parliament on 5th November 1605. One of the main perpetrators of the plot was Guy Fawkes, so Bonfire Night is also often referred to as Guy Fawkes Night. But don’t be confused; they are the same thing! To put it simply on the 5th November in the UK there are nationwide celebrations, with bonfires, fireworks and sparklers aplenty, symbolising the would-be explosions of the failed Gunpowder Plot.

One of the easiest and best ways to get involved with Bonfire Night is to attend a fireworks display. Most university towns have one, so simply check the local councils website for information. Those living in London are spoilt for choice. Alexandra Palace hosts a two-day celebration on the 5th and 6th November, it is a paid event – but a visual treat! If you’re a postgrad on a budget, there are also many free fireworks displays, such as those provided by Southwark Council.

Some of the best firework displays are those near to water, such as Bristol Harbour and the River Mersey in Liverpool. The reflections in the water augment the brilliance of colour, so head waterside for a truly breathtaking experience. You can read more about where some notable celebrations are held here.

There are many organised events happening all over the UK on 5th November, particularly this year as it happens to fall on a Saturday. If you are someone who likes to party until the early hours, then Scala club in King's Cross is hosting a Bonfire Special.

However, you don't need to spend a fortune to celebrate Bonfire Night. Oxford University Press has provided a guide to hosting your own party. It gives useful information about which foods and music will be most in-keeping with the Guy Fawkes theme. It is worth checking out your university's social networks and society websites for student parties, or if you are feeling really daring, you can even have a go at hosting your own – but make sure you play it safe as fireworks can be extremely dangerous of in the wrong hands. This article is full of helpful safety pointers that are essential to having a safe night.

For those attending university in the south east of England, then the place to head to is Lewes near Brighton. The streets of this quaint, usually quiet medieval town come alive at night with over thirty processions of musicians, dancers and performers, all dressed up accordingly. This is the UK's largest Guy Fawkes celebration.

It can seem strange at first to witness people gleefully burning effigies of Guy Fawkes, and parading around in costumes, but embrace it! It’s a brilliant excuse for a great night out, so take our advice, grab a sparkler and jump straight in!

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