Who was Guy Fawkes and why do we have fireworks?

Hi! Here is a very simple story you can understand.

1. Long ago: Over 400 years ago in England, some people wanted to do a very bad thing to a big building called the Houses of Parliament (where the leaders meet).
2. Guy Fawkes: Guy Fawkes was one of the people who helped with the plan. He was found before the plan could happen, so the bad thing did not happen.
3. People were thankful: Because the plan failed and everyone was safe, people made big bonfires and set off fireworks to celebrate and remember that it didn’t happen.
4. Every year: Since then, people remember on November 5. That day is often called Bonfire Night or Guy Fawkes Night. Families watch fireworks and sometimes sing a little rhyme:

"Remember, remember the fifth of November..."

What are fireworks?

Fireworks are bright lights and loud sounds in the sky made by special things that grown-ups light. They look like colorful stars and flowers in the night.

Safety tips (very important!)

• Only grown-ups should light fireworks.
• Watch fireworks from far away so you stay safe.
• If a firework doesn’t go off, do not touch it — tell a grown-up.
• Wear ear protection if the bangs are very loud, and stay with your family.

That’s the simple story: Guy Fawkes was part of a plan that was stopped, and every year people remember by having bonfires and fireworks — but always with grown-ups keeping everyone safe.