Bonfire Night falls on 5 November, and a home display is one of the best ways to celebrate. This guide walks you through planning a safe Bonfire Night fireworks display at home, from shopping list to clean-up.
1. Set a budget and a length
A 10 minute display is plenty for most families. As a rough guide, a selection box plus one extra firework cake gives a full show without overspending.
2. Check your space
Garden (F2) fireworks need spectators at least 8 metres away. Display (F3) fireworks need 25 metres and are for large open areas only. Read our guide to the best fireworks for a small garden.
3. Lay out the garden
- Choose a firing area on firm, flat ground, away from sheds, fences and trees.
- Mark a spectator area behind a clear line at the safety distance.
- Keep a bucket of water and a bucket of sand nearby.
- Set rocket tubes at a slight angle away from people and houses.
4. Plan the running order
- Sparklers for the family (gloves, arm’s length, supervised).
- Fountains and wheels at ground level.
- Roman candles and smaller cakes.
- Rockets between cakes to keep the sky busy.
- Your largest cake as the finale.
5. Follow the Firework Code
- Only adults should light fireworks — one at a time, at arm’s length, with a taper.
- Stand well back and never return to a lit firework.
- Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.
- Keep pets indoors.
6. Keep it legal and neighbourly
On Bonfire Night you can use fireworks until midnight. Let neighbours know your plans. See UK firework laws for details.
7. After the display
Leave used fireworks overnight, then soak them in water before putting them in the bin.
Shop rockets, cakes, fountains and selection boxes. Free delivery within a 3-mile radius for orders of £50 or more.