What you can get up to Bonfire Night weekend
As the nights draw in and the chunky jumpers come out, it’s easy to be distracted by Christmas once Halloween sails by … but wait! Bonfire night, fireworks night, Guy Fawkes night: Whatever you call it, Merseyside has plenty of dazzling displays and autumn activities in store for students this November.
Liverpool’s River of light walk returns for another year, showcasing the brightest works of sculpture artistry along the albert docks – for free! This budget and family friendly self-guided tour lights up between 5-9 PM every evening this weekend, with its final showing on Sunday the 5th of November. It is an accessible short exhibit and can be started or stopped wherever you may please in the trail, and with Liverpool One just a stone’s throw away makes the perfect start to a fun evening.
In the surrounding communities of Liverpool just a short train ride away, there are plenty of traditional (and some non-traditional!) bonfire and fireworks events taking place this weekend. In St Helens, their From the Ground Comes Light display at the Totally Wicked Stadium on November 4th and 5th is a captivating laser show that is both student and family friendly. And, as it is hosted indoors, there is no need to worry about the biting cold!
For a traditional bonfire that doesn’t cost a penny, Birkenhead’s community bonfire kicks off this Sunday from 5pm – no ticket required! Alongside the glowing embers and nostalgic smells will waft the smoky deliciousness of bonfire night food, and to wash it all down there will also be a mobile bar! If this sounds like the end to a perfect autumnal weekend, then don’t forget to hop on across the water this Sunday and show your local communities some support.
For those among us who are thrill-seekers or families who fancy something a bit different, this weekend Southport Pleasureland is hosting its Day of the Dead Family Fireworks: A Mexican themed firework fiesta! This event is slightly more expensive than your average bonfire night – but that’s precisely because is far from traditional! So, if you want to hop on the waltzers, watch themed entertainment, and fancy some fireworks, head down to the seaside venue this weekend and you won’t be disappointed.
If, however, you fancy a more laid-back weekend, take things into your own hands and DIY your cosy Guy Fawkes weekend! A roast dinner followed by watching V for Vendetta with your flatmates, or a fresh pizza and Sunday pub quiz at Love and Rockets Lark Lane – there’s always off-the-cuff ways to enjoy the day without all the bangs and crashes for those who prefer the peace and quiet.
Staying mindful and safe
As you can see, there is plenty to enjoy in and around Liverpool in the coming days – whether that be a spectacular laser exhibit or a dazzling firework show. Most importantly though, we must remember during this holiday to stay safe and be respectful of our neighbours - whether that be for the pets next door or a studying student in the flat below. We hope you have a lovely weekend!
✍ Izzy Hoyle, JMSU Content Creator
