Bonfire Night is one of the biggest opportunities in the UK calendar to bring communities together — and raise significant funds. Whether you’re running an event for a school, charity, sports club, or community group, here’s how to turn your display into a safe, memorable, and profitable night.
1. Start Planning Early
Give yourself at least 6–9 months lead time. Early planning:
- Secures your preferred fireworks provider
- Gives you time to secure permissions and liaise with emergency services if required
- Allows more time for marketing and sponsorship sales
2. Choose the Right Venue
The venue affects your crowd size and income. Make sure it:
- Has good access and parking
- Offers clear viewing areas
- Has enough space for vendors, first aid, and facilities
3. Partner with a Professional Fireworks Company
A professional display means:
- Fewer headaches — they handle risk assessments, insurance, and safety zones
- Better value — you get more impact for your budget
- A higher quality show, which builds your reputation for future years
4. Diversify Your Revenue Streams
Don’t rely on ticket sales alone. Other income sources include:
- Vendor pitch fees (food, drink, fairground rides)
- Profit-sharing agreements with onsite vendors — negotiate a percentage of their takings in addition to or instead of flat pitch fees
- Local business sponsorship packages (banners, shoutouts, programmes)
- Selling glow sticks, sparklers, merchandise
- Raffles, tombolas, and donation stations
5. Collaborate with Similar Events
Find another event with a similar setup — for example, if you’re a school, connect with another school running a fireworks night. You can:
- Share supplier contacts or buy materials in larger quantities together for better pricing
- Exchange ideas on layout, entertainment, and crowd flow
- Learn what’s worked well (or not) for each other
Just be mindful not to pick a neighbouring event that’s too close in geography or timing, to avoid competing for the same audience.
6. Set Smart Ticket Pricing
Use online ticketing for convenience and data capture. Ticket Source is a great UK-based option that’s easy to set up and provides clear reporting. Consider:
- Early bird discounts
- Family bundles
- VIP or fast-track options
Advance tickets improve cash flow and help plan catering, parking, and stewards.
6. Promote Effectively
Promotion is everything:
- Create a Facebook Page and Event (not just an event)
- Distribute flyers to schools and community centres
- Place banners outside your venue weeks before
- Contact local press and event listing sites
7. Make It a Night Out, Not Just a Display
Keep attendees on-site (and spending) with:
- Live music or a DJ
- Hot drinks and food stalls
- Games or fairground attractions
8. Streamline Operations
Well-run events increase attendance year after year. Don’t overlook:
- Trained marshals and clear signage
- Easy access to toilets and first aid
- A robust safety plan and wet weather backup
9. Capture Great Photos and Video
A well-documented event can boost attendance in future years. Make sure to:
- Hire a photographer or assign someone to take high-quality photos
- Capture both crowd atmosphere and the fireworks display
- Encourage attendees to share their own photos on social media
Having great visuals helps market your next event — when people see what to expect, they’re more likely to attend.
Final Thoughts
Bonfire Night can be more than just a celebration — it can be a vital fundraiser. With the right planning, partnerships, and promotion, you’ll not only deliver an amazing show, but generate real value for your organisation.
Need a fireworks provider that helps you maximise impact and income? Let’s chat — we’ve helped dozens of groups run profitable, hassle-free Bonfire Night events.