If there’s a random holiday I feel passionate about, it’s Bonfire Night. My love stems from beloved childhood memories of the rabble of cousins wrapping up in scarves before trekking to the park to watch the firework displays every year. The smell of smoke, ketchup-smothered hot dogs and the adrenaline of worrying about burning your fingers on sparklers transports me back to being nine years old with no midterms to write.
However, with firework restrictions being imposed across the city, making plans for bonfire night takes a bit more effort than it used to. But there’s no need to worry because we’re bringing you all the best plans for this bonfire night, meaning all you have to do is put that message in your group chat!
With light displays taking place across the city, climbing one of Edinburgh’s many hills provides the perfect opportunity to take in the sights. Last year, my friends and I tackled Arthur’s Seat, and whilst we did get lost on our way down (ignoring all advice to be extra careful in the dark), the panoramic views of the city offered a great backdrop for the evening.
Calton Hill is also a brilliant option, offering views that stretch over the sea. Make sure to wrap up warm, stick with friends and be extra careful not to faceplant when climbing down!
Portobello is undoubtedly the top spot for students to be on Bonfire Night. With Civerinos conveniently selling bonfire kits, you’ll be sure to turn up to see stretches of fires across the beach. This can make it slightly difficult to find your friends in the dark: What Three Words just might be a necessity. Disposable BBQs, smores, and cider all make excellent fireside accompaniments to enjoy and if you’re feeling brave, a dunk in the sea before warming back up next to the fire. The Student will be hosting their own bonfire social on Wednesday 5th of November in Portobello with snacks and drinks, so make sure to come along and join in on the fun!
However, if Halloween has left you exhausted, Bonfire Night provides a great excuse to stay inside and bake with friends, and watch a festive movie (November is never too early). Not every holiday has to mean venturing out into the Edinburgh cold, and if you try to do something for every event, you’d never get any uni work done. Not that that would be a bad thing!
Image by Gabriel Mihalcea on Unplash.