Guy Fawkes Day

Friday was the celebration of an (albeit unofficial) British holiday, known as Guys Fawkes Day, in which Brits and Scots alike remember the failed assassination attempt on King James I of England and VI of Scotland. Guy Fawkes, along with 12 other conspirators, planned to blow up the House of Lords during the opening of Parliament in 1605. The idea was that King James' daughter, Elizabeth, would then be installed as Queen and that she would be more sympathetic to the Catholics. Their plan, however, was thwarted when Guy Fawkes was discovered, with 36 barrels of gunpowder, before the plot could be executed.

The annual celebration, often referred to as "Bonfire Night," generally involves setting off fireworks, hosting large bonfires, and burning effigies of "The Guy." Friday was the 405th anniversary, and though we decided to keep out of the rain and stay home, were treated to the noise of fireworks periodically throughout the night!

Remember, remember, the 5th of November
The Gunpowder Treason and plot ;
I know of no reason why Gunpowder Treason
Should ever be forgot.

Guy Fawkes, Guy Fawkes,
'Twas his intent.
To blow up the King and the Parliament.
Three score barrels of powder below.
Poor old England to overthrow.
By God's providence he was catch'd,
With a dark lantern and burning match

Holloa boys, Holloa boys, let the bells ring
Holloa boys, Holloa boys, God save the King!