NZ.Random();: Guy Fawkes Night in NZ

Guy Fawkes Night in NZ

Later tonight, UK and former British colonies New Zealand, Canada and Australia will be celebrating Guy Fawkes Night or sometimes known as Bonfire Night. It commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot of November 5, 1605 wherein a number of Catholic conspirators, including Guy Fawkes, attempted to blow up the House of Parliament in London, England. His target was King Janes I of England, his family and most of the Protestant aristocrats. The Parliament at that time persecuted the local Catholics in England. He and other conspirators were caught and consequently tortured before executed.

It became mandatory in the UK to celebrate the night of November 5 every year as Guy Fawkes Night. It became a day of thanksgiving for the failed plot. Lighting bonfires and street festivities mark the events. They would usually make effigies of Fawkes to be burnt on the November 5 bonfire.

In modern times, people in Britain and other former British colonies still let off fireworks during Guy Fawkes Night. Here in New Zealand, the sale of fireworks was progressively modulated after cases of fireworks -related fires and injuries. I think it makes sense to ban personal fireworks altogether, and leave the fireworks to the professionals.

Some may argue I did not grow up in New Zealand, therefore, I would not know how fun fireworks are. Actually I do, every New Years Eve, the Philippines becomes a like a battleground from the fireworks and firecrackers. However, year after year, injuries are still very common, and there should come a time when it should be strictly regulated.

I am all for fun, but if “fun” results to damage to properties and injuries (not to mention animals are so scared of the noise), then I am out.