The Annual Bonfire Celebration
There was much jubilation in London when the news of Guy Fawkes arrest spread. People lit bonfires around London in celebration of the safety of the king and all the people. Following the arrest, Guy Fawkes and other surviving conspirators faced trial and were subsequently executed either by hanging, drawing, and quartering. However, in January the following year, Parliament passed the Observance of 5th November Act, commonly known as the “ Thanksgiving Act ” to mark November 5th as an annual British public holiday of thanksgiving for the plot’s failure.
Known as Guy Fawkes Day , Guy Fawkes Night , Gunpowder Treason Day , Bonfire Night or Firework Night , November 5th is now celebrated annually in the United Kingdom. Some other countries, including countries that were once a part of the British Empire commemorate Guy Fawkes Day with bonfires, fireworks, parades, and food.