Firework Displays

Fire works have been around for hundreds of years and they are just as exciting now as they have ever been. Originally invented by the Chinese who are still the most major supplier of fireworks to the world.

In the UK there are a number of times when it is traditional to let off a fire work or two.

The most traditional day in the UK is of course bonfire night. Back in 1605 a man by the name of Guy Fawkes plotted with a number of associates to blow up the House of Lords, to try and kill King James I. The gunpowder plot (which was meant to take place on the 5th November during the State Opening of Parliament) failed because Fawkes was dressed for a quick getaway and aroused suspicion. For quite a number of years it was the law in the UK that the deliverance of the King was celebrated. We still have the tradition of burning the Guy today.

Although it is tradition to hold the event on the 5th, quite often it is the weekend before or just after when the events actually take place.

“Remember, remember the fifth of November,
The gunpowder, treason and plot,
I know of no reason
Why the gunpowder treason
Should ever be forgot.”

New Years Eve and Chinese New Year are major fireworks event too. You also have corporate events, halloween, birthday and lots of other special occasions.

Another event we enjoyed recently was the end of Cowes week on the Isle of Wight. Cowes week as an event has been running since 1826, this year it is on between 2nd - 9th August. On the last night there is a fireworks display.

When people talk about fireworks you will often hear them use the word, pyrotechnics, Pyrotechnics is in this case the means of or relating to fireworks.