by Susan Fenn

Created on: November 10, 2009

The Guy Fawkes styled character in "V" for Vendetta (2005) once stated, "Remember, remember the 5th of November. The gunpowder, treason, and plot. I know of no reason why the gunpowder treason should ever be forgot."

A new twist on an old piece of history. In reality Guy Fawkes, also known as Guido Gawkes, never succeeded in his attempt to blow up Parliament in 1605. Today people through out the world still celebrate the 5th of November, but not for Guy Fawkes. It is celebrated for his failure not his success.

Bonfire Night (5th of November) is recognized as the night that King James I and the rest of Parliament survived the attempted assassination by Catholic conspirators. An anonymous letter was sent to the proper authorities, leading them to Guy Fawkes before the fatal attack could be initiated.

In West Yorkshire it is customary that the festival starts a few days before with children "chumping". Chumping is used to describe the collection of wood and other combustible materials to build the bonfires that are to be used on Bonfire Night.

No longer conventional in all areas, children may create a "Guy" to stand beside of on the street. They display a sign behind him that reads "A Penny for the Guy". They take the raised monies and buy fireworks for the main event.

In most towns and villages an effigy of Guy Fawkes is created by stuffing appropriate clothing with paper and other combustibles and then placing "Guy" on a stake to be burned with the bonfire. If you're celebrating in York (Guy Fawkes hometown) don't expect to see his effigy burned.

In addition to the bonfires that are lit, fireworks are set off throughout the towns in villages in chaos with no rhyme or reason to follow. This is to represent what would have happened if Guy Fawkes would have succeeded.

No celebration would be complete without good food. Just like turkey is expected at Thanksgiving in the United States, bonfire toffee, toffee apples, jacket potatoes (baked potatoes wrapped in foil and cooked in the bonfire) and potato pie with picked red cabbage are some of the more traditional foods offered. You can also find hot apple cider, cocoa with marshmallows, and hot dogs cooked over the open fire.

From fireworks, bonfires, good food and Guy Fawkes effigies, celebrating the 5th of November is a treat for people of all ages!

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