A last minute student’s guide to Bonfire Night

It may have only been four days since your last night out at Halloween, but this weekend bonfire night is back. With some of the city’s biggest displays at City Stadium and Saltwell Park cancelled, many students aren’t sure where to get their fix, but rest assured there’s still plenty of displays lighting up the skies.

With Covid causing many venues to limit their numbers, students may be feeling as though they’ve missed their chance, but there’s still a good number of options to get your firework fix. Here’s our guide to some of the best firework displays in and around the city.

North Tyneside

Is there anything better than a fireworks display by the sea? Yes, a FREE fireworks display by the sea. North Tyneside fireworks display will offer a spectacular show at Whitley Bay, paired with fairground rides and refreshments.

With easy transport via the metro, it’s a no brainer really. Drinks and rides are available from 6pm and fireworks kick off at 7pm, said to last around 20 minutes.

When? Sunday 7th November

Where? The Links, Whitley Bay

Price? FREE!

Sutherland Park, Benton

On the slightly cheaper end of the price range, Sunderland Park in Benton is offering fireworks for £5 with food and drinks available. Getting there is easy via metro or car and there’s no need to book in advance.

The display is set to start at 7pm and it’s all in support of The Chronicle Sunshine Fund which supports children with disabilities. Note – tickets paid in cash only.

When? Friday 5th November

Where? Novos RFC, Sutherland Park, Benton

Price? £5

Newcastle Racecourse

On bonfire night itself, Newcastle Racecourse are hosting fireworks, a funfair and food stands. They’re also offering a face painting and glitter stand if you’re not quite ready to let Halloween go.

There’ll be music welcoming you at the venue to get you in the mood, before the fireworks and laser display kick off at 7.30pm.

Tickets are a bit pricier, but there’ll also be All-Weather Championship racing included! (You can get tickets here).

When? Friday 5^th November

Where? Newcastle Racecourse

Price? £

Westfield School, Gosforth

If you’ve already got plans this weekend, or just really love fireworks, here’s one a little later in the month. On Friday 12^th you can find fireworks, a bonfire and freshly cooked hot and cold food at Westfield School, Gosforth.

The only downside – travel by metro requires an 18-minute walk, but don’t let that put you off. Tickets are £6 and the event is promising great bonfire and firework display in the heart of Gosforth. Running from 5pm until 7.30pm, the earlier timeslot means you’ll be leaving with plenty of time to spare for a pint or two.  Tickets can be booked by emailing westfield@westfield.newcastle.sch.uk

When? Friday 12^th November

Where? Westfield School, Gosforth

Price? £6 per ticket

Staying In

If you’re wanting to save some pennies or simply can’t be bothered with the crowds, you may be wondering whether you can organise a DIY bonfire night from your student house. The answer is yes, you probably can. But make sure you’ve got permission from your landlord and know all the legal stuff on fireworks before setting off – no one needs more reasons for the neighbours to complain.

We don’t recommend setting off fireworks unless you know what you’re doing – bevs and bonfires don’t mix too well so why not leave it to the professionals. But sparklers offer a great way to bring the fun closer to home, with most supermarkets selling a pack for the price of a ticket to a display. Not to mention they look great on the ‘gram.

Wherever you go, have fun and stay safe!

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