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Annual observance

Guy Fawkes Day

November 5 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-18

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Overview

Guy Fawkes Day, also known as Bonfire Night, is an annual commemoration primarily celebrated in Great Britain on November 5th. It marks the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605, a conspiracy led by Guy Fawkes and other Catholic dissidents to blow up the House of Lords and assassinate King James I and Parliament. The plot was foiled when Fawkes was discovered guarding explosives beneath Parliament, and today the occasion is observed with bonfires, fireworks displays, and the burning of Guy Fawkes effigies.

Observed each year on November 5, Guy Fawkes Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: Guy Fawkes Day, celebrated on November 5, serves as a historical reminder of the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605, highlighting themes of political dissent and the struggle for religious freedom in Britain. The day fosters community spirit through bonfires and fireworks, symbolizing the triumph of the state over conspiracy.

Origin and story

The popular rhyme 'Remember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot' is traditionally recited on Guy Fawkes Day.

Before every State Opening of Parliament, the Yeomen of the Guard still ceremonially search the cellars of the Palace of Westminster.

Quick facts

  • DateNovember 5
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Bring Guy Fawkes Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
  • Write a note or journal entry on why Guy Fawkes Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
  • Share one fast fact about Guy Fawkes Day: The popular rhyme 'Remember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot' is traditionally recited on Guy Fawkes Day.
  • Plan something small on November 5: a quick nod to Guy Fawkes Day with friends, family, or coworkers.
  • Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the cultural / community observance vibe and make it a mini tradition.

Fun facts

  • The popular rhyme 'Remember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot' is traditionally recited on Guy Fawkes Day.
  • Before every State Opening of Parliament, the Yeomen of the Guard still ceremonially search the cellars of the Palace of Westminster.
  • The iconic Guy Fawkes mask, popularized by the graphic novel *V for Vendetta*, has become a global symbol of protest.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.

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FAQ

When is Guy Fawkes Day?
It is observed on November 5 each year.
What is Guy Fawkes Day?
Guy Fawkes Day, also known as Bonfire Night, is an annual commemoration primarily celebrated in Great Britain on November 5th. It marks the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605, a conspiracy led by Guy Fawkes and other Catholic dissidents to blow up the House of Lords and assassinate King James I and Parliament. The plot was foiled when Fawkes was discovered guarding explosives beneath Parliament, and today the occasion is observed with bonfires, fireworks displays, and the burning of Guy Fawkes effigies.
How do people celebrate Guy Fawkes Day?
Bring Guy Fawkes Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.

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