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ENJOY BONFIRE NIGHT ON WIGHT

November has always been a time of festivals and celebrations marking the end of the harvest and the beginning of Winter.  It’s also the month that British people gather round bonfires to burn effigies of Guy Fawkes and watch firework displays. 

Here on the Isle of Wight, there are two major firework celebrations for visitors to enjoy.

Sandown Carnival & Celebration on 5th November includes a parade with floats and costumed characters through the town's streets, all lit with thousands of colourful lights. The procession starts at 6.30 pm and finishes with a Grand Fireworks Finale over the Bay at 8pm.  Visit Sandown Tourist Information Centre for full details, including parking arrangements in the town, www.sandowncarnival.com

Or opt for a traditional family-oriented Bonfire Night in the delightful harbour town of Yarmouth with a competition for the best-dressed Guy! Enjoy the torchlight procession from the Square to the Common where the skies will fill with an array of colourful fireworks and a roaring bonfire – expect toffee apples, roasted hot chestnuts and warming mulled wine, plus music in the square from 5.30pm with the fireworks display at 7.30pm.  Visit Yarmouth Tourist Information Centre for more information. 

Why not extend your stay with a night at one of the Island’s most luxurious hotels?  The 17^th Century George Hotel in Quay Street, Yarmouth, is offering a one-night “Bonfire Break” in one of their double or twin bedded rooms for £120 including full English breakfast.  Visit www.thegeorge.co.uk for full details  

Later in November, visitors will have the chance to see a natural illuminated display at an event called ‘Observing the Night Sky, which forms part of the International Year of Astronomy programme. 

This free event organised by the Island’s Vectis Astronomical Society (www.wightastronomy.org) takes place at Wellow in the Wight Wight, which has very little light pollution. Meet in the field next to the Institute Hall, Wellow, at 7.30pm on Saturday 21 November. Note, if conditions are cloudy outside, presentations will be in the Institute Hall where refreshments are available – donations welcome.  

For more community-organised events this November, visit www.iwight.com