HARLOW Council’s annual fireworks and bonfire night will be held this year on Sunday 5 November 2023 at the Showground in Harlow Town Park.

Admission to this event will once again be free. This year, as part of the council’s priority to improve council services, the bonfire will be lit at 6.15pm with the fireworks display starting at 6.30pm. These changes follow feedback from parents who have felt previous events have gone on too late for children that have to attend school the next day.

The event will be celebrating its 45th year, having been organised by the council every year since 1978 (not held in 2020 due to the pandemic).

Councillor Stacy Seales, cabinet portfolio holder for community, said:

“The council’s fireworks night continues to be a popular event in Harlow’s events calendar. It is also one of the largest free admission displays in the east of England. As part of our priority to improve council services we are always looking at ways we can improve the events we organise and this year the lighting of the bonfire and fireworks display will take place earlier to accommodate the needs of local families. This event always attracts a big crowd and brings joy to many Harlow families, and we look forward to another safe and successful event taking place.” 

For the safety of those attending, Fifth Avenue, Park Lane, School Lane and some roads serving these roads will be closed between 5.15pm and 8.30pm on the day of the event. The Sainsbury’s roundabout to Mandela Avenue roundabout will also be closed from 6pm to 8.30pm. 

There will be limited parking available for Blue Badge holders only at Showground car park before 5.45pm – people parked in this car park will not be able to leave the Fifth Avenue road closure has been lifted.

Free parking from 5.30pm to 7.30pm will be available in the Altham Grove, Post Office Road, School Lane, First Avenue and Wych Elm car parks.

Residents are asked to follow these safety guidelines when attending the event:

• do not bring fireworks to the event
• be careful with sparklers
• wrap up warmly and wear appropriate footwear – the Showground may be muddy
• bring a torch
• leave pets at home
• children must always be accompanied by an adult – if children become lost or separated, please report to the control tent at the top of the Showground or speak to a steward
• remain behind the safety barriers at all times