BONFIRE Night is quickly approaching with its exhilarating atmosphere created by those impressive explosions that decorate the skies.
This historical event has been celebrated for 407 years since the 1607 Gunpowder Plot and has been part of the island’s calendar for many generations.
Kirk Michael gets the list of local events off with a bang as it is the first to put on a display.
The gates of Michael School will open at 6.30pm on Friday, November 2, giving the crowd enough time to settle before the fireworks are displayed at 7pm. Food and refreshments will be available on the school’s premises from Kirk Michael Chippy and donations can be given at the gates towards the school.
On Saturday, November 3, Douglas is holding its firework display on the promenade at 8pm, with other events to run alongside, including a Best Guy competition, which will be judged by Mayor Councillor David Ashford, who will light the bonfire at 7.45pm.
Bill Mummery, executive director of event sponsor Celton Manx, said: ‘We are delighted to once again sponsor the Douglas Borough Council fireworks display. It really is a landmark event in the Douglas’ calendar, – we are really looking forward to enjoying the spectacle this year.’
Food and refreshments will be available on the seafront and donations can be given to the Mayoral Charity Appeal in exchange for a glow stick.
Ramsey, Peel and Port Erin will be holding their fireworks displays on Bonfire Night itself – Monday, November 5 – at 7.30pm.
Ramsey’s display will be in Mooragh Park over the lake. The Lakeside Centre will be open for food and drinks and the Mooragh amenity car park will have parking available for spectators.
Peel will set off its display from the breakwater and a bonfire on the town’s beach will be lit ahead of the display.
Port Erin’s fireworks are set off at the harbour. There is also a Best Illuminated Lantern competition with prizes for the winners who have shown the most creativity in their designs. Lanterns should not have a naked flame, but a glow stick or torch, and should be suspended from a pole. All entrants are asked to congregate on the Quarterdeck, Shore Road, at 6.45pm before parading to the Cosy Nook Café for judging to take place.
The competition is divided into three age categories: three-five years, six-eight years and nine-11 years, with first, second and third prizes in each category.
This year, you can Ride the Rocket steam train from Douglas station at 5.45pm and arrive in Port Erin in time for the competition and fireworks display. The Tickethall will be selling snacks and beverages.
Prices are £12 per adult and £6 per child. For more information about the trains, go to {http://www.iombusandrail.info|www.iombusandrail.info}.
• Firework organisers at Douglas and Ramsey asked that spectators don’t bring pets or their own fireworks, including sparklers, to the displays.