Cambridge City Council has announced that Bonfire Night and Fireworks – one of the largest free displays in the region – is set to return to Midsummer Common on Saturday 5 November, sponsored this year by Illumina.

Regarded as the safest and best way to enjoy Bonfire Night, the event is one of the city’s longest running and best-loved traditions, when thousands fill Midsummer Common to watch as the night sky is transformed into a kaleidoscope of colour. And this year’s compere for the evening is BBC Radio Cambridgeshire presenter, Jeremy Sallis.

Executive Councillor for Open Spaces, Food Justice and Community Development, Cllr Alex Collis said: “Cambridge’s Fireworks and Bonfire Night is such a well-loved tradition in the city and a great way for people to enjoy fireworks in a safe and community friendly way. Going back decades, it has always been a night full of excitement and anticipation, when families and friends converge in their thousands on historic Midsummer Common to enjoy the dazzling colours and spectacle of this magical fireworks display.

“With everyone facing the current cost of living crisis, we understand more than ever the importance of free community events. We are delighted this wonderful event is returning after the pandemic and immensely grateful to Headline Sponsor, Illumina for their very generous sponsorship and invaluable support. Also, to the many other local businesses and organisations whose contributions have helped make it happen.”

Simon Humphrey, Regional Lead, CSR and Sustainability (EMEA) at Illumina said: “It’s set to be a brilliant occasion and we are delighted to be able to help bring our communities together again for this ever-popular evening. Dress for the weather and we look forward to seeing you there!”

Designing this year’s display once again is multi award-winning company, Pains Fireworks, flagbearers for professional firework displays for nearly 200 years. Spokesperson, Tom Cranmer, said: “After three years of waiting, we cannot wait to light up the skies above Cambridge again for this year’s display at Midsummer Common. The show itself will be full of colour, pace and variety; layers of glorious effects will fill the sky with some truly spectacular moments as we welcome everybody back to this traditional celebration.”

Once again many of the city’s leading companies are joining forces to help bring this superb display to the city in a unique joint sponsorship. Cambridge’s is one of the last remaining free public displays of this scale in the region, so in addition to support from the business community, people are welcome to bring along their loose change to make a contribution to the cost of running the event and keeping it free for all. It’s also simple to make a donation ahead of the event online at Cambridge Live donations.

Large numbers of people are anticipated, allow plenty of time for your journey, arrive early and wherever possible walk, cycle, or use public transport. Additional Park & Ride services will be available for the evening. The first rocket will be launched at 7pm followed by the lighting of the bonfire. For full details go to Cambridge Live bonfire night. 

With thanks to: Illumina, Astra Zeneca, RBC Brewin Dolphin, Group 1 Cambridge BMW, Group 1 Cambridge Mini, Qualcomm, University of Cambridge, Cambridge BID, TTP, Graduate Cambridge.