The Fifth of November in the UK is known as Bonfire Night or Guy Fawkes Day / Night. It is celebrated with firework displays around that time. If you want to mark the occasion, here are some of the best Bonfire Night events in Norfolk.
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History of Bonfire Night
In 1605, Guy Fawkes, a Catholic, tried to blow up Parliament in protest because it was under Protestant control. The plot failed and Fawkes was executed. Big fires were lit around London in celebration and the anniversary has been marked ever since with both fireworks and bonfires.
Read more about Guy Fawkes here.
Bonfire Night in Norfolk
You will probably hear and see fireworks for a few days leading up to the big night and even a few days after. There are several organized events but there are many more informal ones. Personally, I prefer to leave the firework displays up to the professionals. Not only is it safer, but the show will be more spectacular.
The biggest fireworks show on Norfolk’s calendar is usually Norwich’s Big Boom Fireworks, a huge display above Norwich Castle. However, it hasn’t been held since 2019. Unfortunately it has been cancelled again for 2023, but don’t worry there are many other Bonfire events in Norfolk.
Remember these are outdoor events, so be sure to check the weather and dress appropriately.
Norwich Big Boom
2023 Date: Cancelled
Norwich celebrates Bonfire Night with a huge free fireworks display over Norwich Castle. Crowds gather on St. Peter’s Street by the City Hall to watch it. It is typically held on the Thursday closest to Bonfire Night but it has not taken place since 2019. No tickets are needed.
Blakeney Fireworks & Bonfire Event
2023 Date: 21 October (or 22 October if weather dictates)
It may be a little early, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
The evening kicks off at 17:00 with a variety of hot food and various attractions at Carnser car park. Then Ruby Flames performs at 18:15.
The bonfire will be lit at 18:45 and the fireworks show is at 19:30. It’s done by Titanium Fireworks, who also do the Cromer Carnival fireworks and the Cromer New Year’s Day fireworks.
It’s a free event and no tickets are needed. You can park for free at the Blakeney Village Hall car park. Get details here.
Fawkes in The Walks in King’s Lynn
2023 Date: 3 November POSTPONED now 10 November
This free fireworks display is organised by the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk. There will be stalls, live music, refreshments, and a fun fair too.
The fun starts at 18:00, with the bonfire lighting at 18:30 and the firework show at 20:00. You do not need any tickets. Get details here.
While you are in the area, be sure to check out our recommendations for the best things to do in King’s Lynn.
Reedham Village Bonfire Night
2023 Date: 4 November
Enjoy a memorable Bonfire Night celebration at Reedham Village Hall. The evening’s festivities will commence with the lighting of the bonfire at approximately 18:20, followed by the fireworks display at 19:00. There will be a BBQ offering a variety of options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. Refreshments and glow sticks will be available to enhance your experience, and for your convenience, they accept card payments.
Entry is absolutely free! They welcome any donations to help cover the cost of the fireworks.
Get more information here.
Wroxham Barns Low Bang Firework Event
2023 Date: 3 November (Note: 2 November show cancelled due to Storm Ciaran)
If you have young children, this is probably the best Bonfire night event for you. They have a low bang firework display set to child friendly Disney music and you get entry to the Junior Farm for the evening. Kids can enjoy the rides at the fun park too.
You get your own square in the firework field which can fit up to 6 people and is 2 metres from the next group. Bring a blanket or some camping chairs to make the most of the evening. If you get hungry, their catering areas will be open, along with food trucks and a bar.
The event will run from 17:30 – 20:30 and the firework will start at 20:15. You must pre-book. Tickets are £65 per socially distanced square (up to 6 people including children and babies).
Get more information here.
Thorpe St. Andrews Fireworks
2023 Date: 5 November
Head to Fitzmaurice Park for a funfair (cash only), food stalls, a bar, and of course fireworks around 19:30. The entrances to the event are located on Pound Lane, Montrose Crescent, and Commonwealth Way.
You will need to buy tickets in advance to attend. The tickets go on sale for £5 each on 1 October.
Watch our video highlights from their 2022 show here.
Get more information here. NOW SOLD OUT!
Hunstanton Fireworks
2023 Date: 4 November
Hunstanton has one of the largest firework displays in the area and it gets bigger each year. The event is held at the Hunstanton Clifftop Car Park. They have a funfair with children’s rides, stalls, live music with laser show, a large bonfire, fireworks, refreshments, and mulled wine.
If you want to buy tickets in advance you can do so at the Princess Theatre or online but you will need to allow time for the tickets to be mailed. They have a family ticket for £25, adults are £10, and kids are £5.
Get more details here.
Hemsby Fireworks
2023 Date: 3 November
Gates open at 17:00 for the fireworks display around 20:00 at Hemsby Playing Field by the Village Hall. There will be music, amusements, stalls, a bar with a selection of bottled beers, and a BBQ.
Entry is just £3.50, and for under 4’s, entry is free. Find out details here.
Friends of Roughton Annual Fireworks Display
2023 Date: 3 November
The fun starts at 17:00 at St. Mary’s School (NR11 8AF). There will be a bbq, refreshments, and raffle, then fireworks show starts at 18:15.
Save money by getting advance tickets here.
Cringleford Scouts Fireworks Display
2023 Date: 3 November
The gates open at the Cringleford Recreation Ground on Oakfields Road for the annual bonfire and fireworks display at 18:30. The bonfire will be lit at 18:45. The first fireworks display is at 19:15, while the main one takes place at 20:15.
There will be food (bbq & hog roast) and entertainment including a performance from the City of Norwich Pipe Band, children’s rides, and more.
Please walk to the event if you can as there is no parking on Oakfields Road or at the Recreation Ground.
You will need to buy your ticket in advance online this year and numbers are limited. Prices have not be been announced but last year adults were £6 and children (anyone under 18) were only £3.
Ger more information and purchase tickets here.
Downham Market Fireworks
2023 Date: 4 November CANCELLED DUE TO FLOODING
This fireworks festival at Stradsett Hall and Country Park will have a live stage, music, dancing, fire breathers, fairground, food and of course, fireworks and it is all for charity.
There will be rides, slides and more fun things for the kids. JakRopa will be running the show on stage, and keeping everyone entertained.
Downham Market Roundtable runs this fireworks event that raises much needed funds for local charitable causes. The profits go to finance local groups that can help those who need it. If you are interested in having a stand at the event, get in touch with them.
Early bird tickets are available at last year’s prices – family tickets that include 2 adults and 2 children are £20. Adult tickets for those 16 and up are £7.50 and child tickets are £3.50. It’s free for children under 3.
Buy tickets here.
1st Mulbarton Scouts Fireworks Event
2023 Date: 4 November
The fund takes place at the Mulbarton Scout Headquarters. Gates open at 18:00 and there will be a BBQ, hot & cold drinks & sweet treats. The bonfire will be lit at 19:00 and fireworks will be at 19:45.
Adults are £5 and Children are £3. There is no prebooking, you just pay cash at the gate. Get details here.
Taverham Fireworks Night
2023 Date: 4 November
This popular annual bonfire and fireworks night event is back! Gates will open at 18:00 with firework displays at 19:00 and 20:00. It all happens at the Taverham Scout Group Headquarters on Sandy Lane (Use postcode NR8 6JR for the sat nav). Note there is no designated parking.
Tickets are £6.50 (plus a small booking fee). Children 5 or under are free with a under 5 ticket adult. You need to purchase tickets in advance here.
Hellesdon Fireworks and Halloween Night
2023 Date: 4 November
Hellesdon High School is hosting an event for Bonfire Night from 17:00 to 20:00. You can enjoy a bar, games, food stalls, cakes, craft stalls and lots more.
Get more information here.
Thetford Fireworks Spectacular
2023 Date: 5 November Rescheduled to 12 November due to Storm Ciaran
Don’t miss the fun at Barnham Cross Common Playing Fields in Thetford. It’s a fantastic family event with free admission. Enjoy two incredible fireworks displays—one for children at 17:45 and another for adults at 19:45. There are fairground rides, delicious food vendors, and more to keep you entertained from 15:00 to 21:00. Convenient parking is available at Barnham Common for a £3 donation.
Get more information here.
Fireworks Night at South Walsham Village Hall
2023 Date: 4 November
This year, there’s plenty to keep you warm and entertained at this Bonfire Night celebration. Gates open at 17:00. The bonfire will be lit at 18:00 and then prepare to be dazzled by an awe-inspiring fireworks display at 19:00 that will illuminate the night sky.
Following the fireworks show, at 19:30, you are in for a special treat. The Jacks will be taking the stage inside the hall, delivering an unforgettable live music performance. Get ready to dance the night away to their rock, punk, and ska tunes as we keep the energy levels soaring.
Ticket are £5 for adults, £2.50 for children 5 – 16, and under 5s are free. Get the details here.
We Love Fireworks at the Wymondham Rugby Club
2023 Date: 3 November
It’s an evening with fireworks, a funfair, DJ, and street food vendors at the Wymondham Rugby Club starting at 17:00. They will also serve a range of drinks from the rugby club bar (payment by credit card only).
Note there is limited on site parking.
Tickets are £8 for adults, £5 for under 16s, and under 4s were free. You need to book in advance, get more information here.
30th Norwich Scout Group Bonfire & Fireworks Display in Sprowston
2023 Date: 5 November
The celebration takes place at Tusting Close (NR7 8TD). Gates open at 18:30. The bonfire will be lit at 19:00 and there will be fireworks at 19:30 and 20:00 (approximately).
Advance tickets available for £5 from Post Office, Newscene Sprowston Road or J and P Fish North Walsham Road. Entry at the gate will be £6.
Swaffham Rugby Club Fireworks Display
2023 Date: 5 November
It will be a fantastic evening at the Bonfire Night celebration in Swaffham! Gates open at 17:00, and the highlight of the evening, the fireworks show, will light up the sky at 19:00. You can also enjoy a BBQ, refreshments, a well-stocked bar, exciting side stalls, and fun-filled kid activities throughout the event.
There are no advance tickets required; simply pay with cash at the entrance. Admission is £5 for adults, £3 for kids aged 5-16, and accompanied kids under 5 get in for free. For families looking to share the excitement, there is a family ticket priced at just £10, which includes entry for 2 adults and 3 children.
Get more information here.
Wroxham Football Club Annual Fireworks Display
2023 Date: 5 November
Wroxham FC is hosting its annual fireworks display at Wroxham Football Club. The show will light up the sky at 19:15. There will also be music before and after the fireworks, fairground Rides, hot food and drinks, plus a bar with Woodforde’s beer on tap. Gates open at 17:00.
Buy online here for £8 for adults, £4 children 5-16 (under 5s go free), and £20 for a family ticket (2 adults plus max 2 children). On the night it will be £10 for adults, £5 for children (under 5s go free).
Bodham Village Bonfire and Fireworks
2023 Date: 4 November POSTPONED to 11 November
Gates at the Bodham Playing Field open at 17:30 and there will be a BBQ and refreshments available. The Bonfire is lit at 18:30 and the fireworks display takes places at 19:00.
Adults are £5 and children £3. It’s cash only at the gate. There is limited parking available on the field.
Get more information here.
Poringland Fireworks
2023 Date: 4 November
The gates will swing open at 16:00, welcoming you to an exciting Fireworks Night featuring Grays Funfair and a delightful array of food and drink vendors, including the return of Redwells and Craftily Beers.
You can enjoy live music too, with the Nigel King Band and “Piratechnics” gracing us with a pyrotechnic dance performance. Following this, at 19:30, get ready for a firework display, enhanced by synchronized music!
The musical journey will continue after the fireworks, and the gates will close at 21:00. Please note that this event is exclusively for advanced ticket holders, so secure your spot promptly! Also note that parking is not available on site, so you are encouraged to arrive on foot.
Tickets are priced at £6.00 for adults (16+) and £4.00 for children (3-15); children under 3 enter for free (though paid tickets incur a minor booking fee).
Get more information and purchase tickets here. NOW SOLD OUT
Overstrand Fireworks Spectacular
2023 Date: 4 November
Get ready for a dazzling night of fireworks at Overstrand’s Pauls Lane Car Park with free admission! The bonfire ignites at 19:00, setting the stage for a warm evening, and the main event, the fireworks display, starts at 19:30. Before the show, indulge in delicious refreshments by the Bucket List, available from 18:30.
Get more information here.
Filby Fireworks
2023 Date: 5 November
At Filby entry is budget-friendly, with tickets priced at only £5 per person, and children under 5 get in for free! You’ll also find convenient free parking at the post code NR29 3HN.
The evening kicks off with a big bonfire at 18:00, setting the stage for the fireworks show that follows. For those seeking more excitement, there will be fun fair rides suitable for all ages. You won’t have to worry about going hungry, as there will be hot food stands to keep your taste buds satisfied. Plus, there’s a licensed bar for those looking to unwind and enjoy the evening.
Just a quick reminder: No debit or credit cards will be accepted, so be sure to have cash on hand for all your purchases.
Get more information here.
North Wootton Scout and Guide’s Annual Bonfire and Fireworks Display
2023 Date: 5 November
The North Wootton Scout and Guide’s Annual Bonfire and Fireworks Display kicks off at 18:00, welcoming all. At 19:15, the night sky will light up with a fireworks show. Indulge your taste buds with a selection of hotdogs, burgers, drinks, and ice cream. And, of course, no bonfire night would be complete without a crackling bonfire.
Please remember that tickets must be booked in advance to secure your spot at this fantastic event.
Get more information here.
Great Yarmouth Fantastic Fireworks Gala Night
2023 Date: 5 November
Enjoy an exciting combination of adrenaline-pumping racing and a breath-taking fireworks display. With an impressive line-up of 61 Bangers, along with Superstox and 1300 Stockcars, this event promises an action-packed spectacle. The real highlight of the evening is the colossal firework display.
The doors open at 14:30, and the racing action starts at 4 pm, making it a perfect day out for all ages. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults £20, Seniors £18, Children aged 5-14 years £8, and a family ticket for 2 adults and 3 children is available for just £50.
Get more information here.
Hautbois Bonfire and Fireworks Night
2023 Date: 3 November
Enjoy an adventure in climbing and abseiling, savour the warmth of toasted marshmallows, and try your luck at winning exciting fair games! Delicious food and hot drinks will be ready for purchase, and the evening will culminate with a firework display.
The doors will open at 17:00 for a host of activities. The bonfire will be ignited at 19:00, followed by a fireworks show. Tickets are a mere £6.50, and children under the age of 4 can enter for free.
Get more information and buy tickets here. UPDATE NOW SOLD OUT
More Seasonal Events in Norfolk
If you enjoyed this post, be sure to check out our other event guides:
The Best Halloween Events in Norfolk
The Best Christmas Events in Norfolk
The Best New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Events in Norfolk
