Around November 5th every year, you’ll find firework displays up and down the county showcasing all the best kinds of fireworks. Watch Catherine Wheels send sparks flying in every direction, Rockets go up with a bang and Chrysanthemums explode into colour.

But what’s it all about?

Well, no doubt you’ve heard how the rhyme goes. . .

Remember, remember the fifth of November,

Gunpowder treason and plot.

We see no reason

Why gunpowder treason

Should ever be forgot.

The plot we’re talking about here is the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.

A Catholic conspirator who went by the name of Guy Fawkes was found hiding with 36 barrels of gunpowder beneath the Houses of Parliament. Thankfully, Fawkes was arrested before he managed to blow the place to dust with King James I inside.

The people of London – happy that their King came to no harm – quickly took to the streets in celebration. They lit bonfires around the city to burn effigies of Fawkes, and so began the annual Bonfire Night holiday.

These days, Bonfire Night (or Fireworks Night, as it’s become widely known) is more about the fireworks than bonfires, and it’s no longer a celebration held only in the capital. Fireworks can be seen lighting up the skies across the entire country to remember Fawkes’ failed assassination attempt.

What’s more, many of us have come up with more modern ways to join in the remembrance celebrations. For instance, at bgo.com you’ll find firework-themed bgo slots games to play on your laptop or smartphone. Choose from Firework Frenzy, Fantastic Fireworks and Fireworks Blitz.

It’s now also possible to buy fireworks to host a display for family and friends in your own background. Just check out our list of the best types of fireworks if you need help picking what to buy.