Bonfire Night – Manchester

Having wrapped ourselves in loo roll and claimed to be ancient mummies in the name of Hallowe’en, November is giving our inner child another gift: Bonfire Night! Yes, we all ‘Remember, remember…’ that the event originates from that naughty Guy Fawkes fellow trying to blow up parliament with his gunpowder plot, but to be honest we’re too busy getting neck ache from staring at the sky and emitting ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ at sparkly stuff to pay much attention to the historical relevance. Sorry! While it’s all well and good to stay warm and watch them through an upstairs window, it’s not really in the spirit of things is it? So grab your mittens and your bobble hat, and head out to one of the many public events happening on your doorstep.

Manchester

Heaton Park Metrolink Bonfire & Fireworks Display – 5th November (Thurs)

About 4 miles north of the city centre you’ll find Heaton Park (it shouldn’t be too hard, it’s one of the largest municipal parks in Europe), and if you follow the signs to the Papal Field you’re in for a treat. Last year approximately 40,000 people attended the event, which comprises the classic bonfire and fireworks combo with a fun fair and even a catering village! We think 40,000 people is a few more residents than you usually get in a village, but we’re not going to argue as long they’re providing tasty food.

The fun fair will be available for thrill seekers between 5 – 9.30pm, with the fireworks display kicking off at 7.30, followed by the lighting of the bonfire at 8.00pm.

While the event is free to attend (whoop!), Christie’s volunteers will be collecting donations to be shared between The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and the event.

For more info contact 0161 773 1085 or go to www.heatonpark.org.uk