This annual celebration commemorates the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot on November 5, 1605. This plot, headed by Guy Fawkes because of his military and explosives experience, was a conspiracy to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London and kill King James I. After the plot was discovered, the conspirators, including Guy Fawkes, were tortured, hanged, and drawn and quartered. Since the day the plot was discovered, Guy Fawkes Day was encouraged to celebrate the king's escape from assassination. Today, it is still celebrated in the United Kingdom, as well as other current and former British territories including New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, Newfoundland, Australia, Bermuda, and other Caribbean islands.
The festivities of this holiday include fireworks and the lighting of bonfires. Several traditional rhymes are often accompanied with these celebrations such as the "bonfire cry." Take part in the festivities today and celebrate Guy Fawkes Day!
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