How to celebrate Bonfire Night at home

It’s day one of the second national lockdown and that means Bonfire Night is certainly going to look a little different to normal, but you can still find ways to celebrate at home.

Right now we can’t mix households and we can’t gather in public places like we normally would for Bonfire Night. There are no official celebrations taking place and Liverpool’s River of Light will not be happening.

But you can still get into the spirit of things at home with the following ideas:

1. Sparklers

Sure, it’s called Fireworks Night, but setting off your own fireworks at home isn’t hugely advisable, and few of us have the space anyway. For a low risk, high reward alternative, go all in on sparklers.

Although sparklers are safer than fireworks, make sure you’re still being sensible with them – only light one at a time, wear gloves when handling them, dispose of them responsibly, supervise kids, and don’t give them to children under the age of five.

2. Eat autumnal food

If you’re spending a bit more time at home, you could have the opportunity to really experiment with your Bonfire Night spread. The cold weather calls for hearty, filling and delicious food – we’re thinking a rich, smoky chilli, or classic hot dogs with all the trimmings.

Of course, no Guy Fawkes Night is complete without those toffee apples, and they are achievable at home – try this recipe from Tesco for a very sweet treat.

3. Drink something warming

No November 5 feast would be complete without the right drinks. Particularly if you’re spending time outside in the garden, whip up a batch of hot chocolate for you and the family – kids will love theirs with all the trimmings; marshmallows and whipped cream, while a slug of whisky or brandy won’t go amiss in yours.

For other warming drinks that are definitely for adults only, check out this BBC Good Food recipe for mulled cider, or this Epicurious recipe for a hot toddy.

4. Do something crafty

If your kids are sad about missing the traditional fireworks display this year, you can still get into the spirit of things at home with the help of arts and crafts. Maybe get the whole family painting their best bonfires, creating fireworks out of pipe cleaners, or even putting together your very own Guy Fawkes scarecrow out of ice lolly sticks.

5. Watch the fireworks from the comfort of your sofa

Fireworks displays are the true hero of Bonfire Night – who can resist the loud bangs, flashing lights and inevitability of Katy Perry’s Firework blasting over the speakers? One thing we don’t relish though is just how freezing cold you get standing out in your local park. Luckily, this year you can still catch some fireworks – but without your toes going numb.

You can watch our highlights from last years River of Light above.

6. Look after your pets

With no big displays to attend, it’s likely more people will be lighting fireworks in their backyards this year. This could cause even more stress than normal for pets and animals who are scared of the loud noises. It’s more important than ever to take care of your pets – take a look at the RSCPA’s page of tips for how to do so, including creating quiet and safe spaces for your dog and partly covering cages for soundproofing.

You can also tune in to Classic FM, where Bill Turnbull will be presenting a show full of calming and soothing music to help your pets.