Guy Fawkes Night

Guy Fawkes Night is celebrated on November 5 in the United Kingdom. It remembers the night in 1605 when Guy Fawkes was caught trying to blow up Parliament. The event is known as the Gunpowder Plot. Today, people mark the night with fireworks and bonfires.

The Gunpowder Plot

In 1605, a group of 13 men were upset with King James I. They planned to blow up the Houses of Parliament during the opening ceremony. Guy Fawkes was put in charge of guarding the gunpowder hidden in the cellar. But someone sent a warning letter to a member of Parliament. Guards found Fawkes and arrested him before the plot could be carried out.

Guy Fawkes in Popular Culture

The rhyme 'Remember, remember, the fifth of November' has been recited by British children for hundreds of years. In modern times, the Guy Fawkes mask has become a famous symbol around the world. The mask was made popular by a graphic novel and movie called V for Vendetta. Today, Guy Fawkes Night is mostly about having fun with fireworks and warm food.

Fun Facts

• The 36 barrels of gunpowder hidden by the plotters would have completely destroyed the Parliament building.
• The famous Guy Fawkes mask has a big smile, a thin mustache, and a pointed beard.
• Some people in Britain call the holiday 'Fireworks Night' instead of Guy Fawkes Night.

Did You Know?

Guy Fawkes was not actually the leader of the Gunpowder Plot. A man named Robert Catesby organized the whole plan.