The Tar Barrels of Ottery St. Mary Festival

Guy Fawkes Day has been an English tradition going back 400 years, celebrating the failed attempt at assassinating of King James. During the siege of Parliament, 36 barrels of gunpowder and pockets of matches were discovered in the cellar, which were to be used to blow it sky high. Now, most towns commemorate the foiled plot by rolling flaming barrels through the streets.

The folks in Ottery St. Mary; however, take things a little further. Watching the flaming barrels tumble down the road wasn’t dangerous enough, so revelers here actually hoist the barrels on their shoulders and race through town — while still on fire. It’s a can’t-miss spectacle for those who enjoy living on the edge. Unfortunately, only the village veterans can participate, but it’s still fun to watch.

In addition to the race, Guy Fawkes Day, otherwise known as Bonfire Night, includes a mini fairground, stalls of street food and plenty of drinks. The event draws in a raucous crowd each year Nov. 5 (unless the 5th falls on a Sunday) and, with thousands in attendance, things can get rowdy pretty quick.

Bonfire Night is not for the faint of heart, but if you enjoy large crowds, lots of alcohol and things being lit on fire it’s one of the best events in the world.