Bonfire Night
Many people assume that, if you’re vegan, Bonfire Night celebrations might be off-limits. But, from marshmallow toasting to the much loved colourful night-time displays, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it, whilst staying true to your principles.
With a little creativity and some mindful choices, you can easily make your Bonfire Night celebrations not only vegan-friendly but just as exciting, cosy, and indulgent as any other. There’s no need to miss out on the fun!
Food Alternatives
Just because you're vegan doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the cosy, autumn indulgence! There are plenty of delicious, cruelty-free options for classic seasonal treats. Animal hot dogs can easily be replaced with vegan ones. Parkin and toffee apples are still very much on the menu, and without losing any of the sticky, spiced goodness. Hot chocolate is easily made vegan with almond, oat, or soy milk when using one of the many vegan drinking chocolates out there, and there are plenty of dairy-free fudge and marshmallow options available, too! And, it goes without saying, baked potatoes will always be vegan - just swap the butter! Here’s some of our favourites swaps and recipes.
Swaps
Bonfire & Firework Alternatives
Fairy Lights
Fairy lights create a magical glow without the loud noises or sudden flashes of traditional fireworks, which can cause severe stress to pets and wildlife. Loud noises from fireworks can trigger anxiety, cause pets to flee, and disturb nocturnal animals like owls and bats. Birds, in particular, can be disoriented by sudden loud bangs, sometimes flying into obstacles in panic. Fairy lights provide a peaceful, light-based alternative, and using solar-powered options also minimizes environmental impact by reducing energy consumption.
Chimeneas
Chimeneas are more eco-friendly way to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire without the dangers posed by traditional ground bonfires. Ground bonfires are a significant risk to small animals like hedgehogs, frogs, and mice, which often crawl inside unlit bonfire piles for shelter. In fact, it’s estimated that hundreds of hedgehogs die each year in bonfires after unknowingly nesting inside.
Chimeneas also produce less smoke and ash, which can reduce air pollution and irritation for pets and sensitive people.
Raised Bonfires
Like chimeneas, raised bonfires (in fire pits or containers) also help avoid the risk of harm to hedgehogs and other small mammals that seek shelter in ground-level wood piles. Raised bonfires are also easier to control and contain, reducing the risk of wildfires and making it safer for people and pets.
Drone Shows
Drone shows are becoming a beautiful, compassionate alternative to traditional fireworks. They provide the same vibrant spectacle without the loud bangs that can upset pets, wildlife, and veterans. There are often numerous drone shows going on around Bonfire Night - simply search Google to see if there’s one in your local area.
Glow Sticks
While traditional sparklers can add fun to celebrations, they come with environmental drawbacks. Sparklers generate smoke, contribute to air pollution, and leave behind sharp metal debris that can harm wildlife and pets if not disposed of properly. Animals might ingest the remnants, causing injury, and children or pets can be cut by the leftover metal. Additionally, sparklers create non-biodegradable waste, which isn't eco-friendly. For a more sustainable alternative, consider using glow sticks as a fun, quiet, and colourful alternative.
Laser Projectors
Laser projectors are a wonderful way to recreate the excitement of Bonfire Night while keeping things peaceful and kind to the environment. They’re perfect for showing virtual firework displays or themed visuals, bringing a dazzling atmosphere to your home or outdoor space. Amazon sell a number of laser projectors which, unlike fireworks, you can use year-after-year - like this one.
LED Poi Twirling
Poi Twirling is a fantastic alternative to sparklers and fireworks, offering a visually stunning and eco-friendly option. LED poi uses soft, glowing lights attached to flexible cords, allowing you to spin and twirl them in beautiful patterns. Unlike traditional fireworks or sparklers, LED poi is reusable, produces no smoke or harmful debris, and is completely safe for pets, wildlife, and children. It’s a great way to add excitement to Bonfire Night while ensuring your celebration remains eco-conscious and fun for everyone involved!
Silent Disco and Glow Party
A silent disco and glow party is a fun alternative to traditional Bonfire Night celebrations. With wireless headphones, guests can dance to their own music choices without causing noise pollution that disturbs pets or wildlife. Combine this with LED lights, glow sticks, and body paint to create a vibrant, glowing atmosphere perfect for families or groups of friends. This option allows you to enjoy the party atmosphere in a peaceful, eco-conscious way, ensuring everyone, including neighbours and pets, remains undisturbed.
Low-Noise Fireworks
While it’s undoubtedly best for wildlife, pets, veterans - and the planet - to avoid fireworks entirely, we acknowledge that some people may not want to give them up completely. So if you're looking for a more considerate firework, low-noise ones are the kindest option. These types of fireworks still produce a vibrant visual display but eliminate the loud bangs and whistling noises that often cause distress to animals and sensitive individuals. Let’s Party Fireworks and Fireworks Crazy both offer a range of quiet fireworks and Catherine wheels.
Here’s a small selection of vegan-friendly recipes to try this Bonfire Night. Many traditional recipes can be easily veganized with a few simple swaps—replace dairy milk with plant milk, use vegan butter, and substitute meat with delicious alternatives. It’s really much easier than you might think, and the results are just as comforting. So whether you’re looking for hearty stews, baked treats, or smoky BBQ flavours, there’s a vegan version for every dish!
