Fifth of November = Fourth of July

So lately, there have been a lot of fireworks displays near my house. Last night, Saturday night, a week ago, etc. It seemed a bit strange to me - I haven't really seen any fireworks since I have been here. Tonight, after I saw listings for fireworks in Time Out as well as some kids lighting firecrackers in the streets, I decided to do a little investigation.

Turns out that this weekend is Bonfire Night, or Guy Fawkes Night. On November 5, 1605, five conspirators including Guy Fawkes plotted to blow up Parliament and kill King James the I. And I guess Londoners (and maybe the rest of England, who knows) celebrate the occasion.

I guess it has a whole lot more history than a US hell night, but it still seems a bit strange to me. Unfortunately, I will be out of here on Saturday, so I won't be able to experience the 400th anniversary of the Gunpowder Plot.