29/09/2010

Over four hundred years ago Londoners were encouraged to celebrate King James I's escape from assassination by lighting bonfires in the city, a tradition that has taken place across the UK ever since.  In York, birthplace of Guy Fawkes, bonfire night is a particularly poignant reminder of Britain's rich and colourful history - though St Peter's school is the only venue in the country that doesn't burn a ‘Guy' - that wouldn't be fitting for ‘an old boy'.   This year's ‘Guy Fawkes in York' guide, which details the line-up of events on offer to visitors and residents has been launched by tourism body Visit York.

Traditional bonfire and fireworks events, walking trails offering the chance to find out more about Guy Fawkes and the history of the man behind the infamous Gunpowder Plot and the annual Illuminating York festival are all part of the Guy Fawkes in York guide.

Returning too, by popular demand, is the York Maze Fireworks Spectacular on Friday 5 November, including a giant bonfire and sideshows and fire jugglers throughout the evening.  The fireworks will start at 8pm to music chosen by listeners of Minster FM, followed by York's favourite ‘party band' HUGE performing live in the barn at 8.30pm. Tickets must be purchased in advance from http://www.yorkmaze.com/, with no tickets available on the night.

For the avid historians out there and those who want to learn the story behind one of York's most infamous sons, there are a variety of walks and trails available to relive the tale of the intriguing plotter. 

On the run up to November 5th Visit York is encouraging visitors and residents to explore the city by night; an evening trip with a difference, with the ultimate view of the night's celebrations, is available for those who can brave the heights of York Minster's Central Tower on Friday 5 November.  Spaces are limited with ninety places available in three different timeslots for this rare opportunity to see York at night from above, with pre-booking essential  Tel 0844 939 0011.

Visitors to York this October half term will also have a unique opportunity to see a beloved national landmark in an entirely new light.  Using cutting edge technology, in its first ever use as a true ‘son et lumiere' canvas, York Minster's exterior South Transcept will be transformed into a work of art in a breath-taking visual and aural exploration into the symbolism of the Rose.

Gillian Cruddas, Chief Executive at Visit York, said ‘It's great to see that there are so many different events in and around the city in the run up to bonfire night.  Our new publication aims to offer a range of options to discover York by night and also highlight some of the activities the city has on offer to mark our unique connection to Guy Fawkes.'

10,000 copies of the Visit York publication, ‘Guy Fawkes in York', have been printed and will be available from the new Visit York Information Centre at 1 Museum Street, or telephone 01904 550099 for more information or visit http://www.visityork.org/   ENDS.