Last Updated on 4 April 2025 by Colette
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, bonfire night is one my most favourite nights of the year. I love the way bonfire night smells – the smell of fireworks and sparklers, of smoky fires and hot food. I love the flashes, the bangs, the oohs, the aahs. I love getting bundled up in my warmest winter clothing and heading out into the night full of anticipation.
I must admit when it comes to wondering what to wear to a bonfire – comfort and practicality win out over style. I want to be warm, cosy and dry above all else – and if you’re taking your kids to a bonfire then you definitely want to make sure they are comfortable and warm otherwise you’re all just going to have a really sad time!
How to dress for a bonfire . . .
Layers, Layers, Layers
You might think that a chunky knit is a good idea for a bonfire night outfit but in all honesty layers are key – especially if you’re going to be outside to watch the fireworks and then indoors for a bonfire party afterwards – a chunky knit might leave you a bit overwhelmed!
As temperatures can drop as the night progresses, layering is key to maintaining comfort – as I say to my kids, it’s easier to stay warm than to get warm. I would always recommend starting with a cosy base layer – I love an M&S thermal and the kids usually have a base layer or two from somewhere like Decathlon. Then you can add extra layers with a t-shirt or flannel shirt and a sweater or hoodie for extra warmth and versatility.
I remember as a kid wearing two pairs of trousers or even leg warmers for bonfire night but I honestly don’t think it gets as cold as it did in the 80s!
Denim or Comfy Joggers
A classic pair of denim jeans or comfortable joggers will keep you warm and stylish but if it’s raining I would recommend avoiding the denim – wet jeans are no fun for anyone. I tend to stick to a pair of cosy, fleece lined leggings which will tuck easily into my socks and boots.
Practical Outerwear
Bear in mind that once you’ve got to the bonfire night event, you’ll likely be doing a lot of standing still so you could get cold pretty quickly. Depending on the weather, you’re going to want a warm, waterproof outer layer to provide extra insulation when the temperature drops and to give you protection from any wind and rain – this is November in the UK. When the kids were little I used to dress them in full suits from Muddy Puddles to keep them warm and dry.
Comfortable Footwear
The right footwear will always make a difference to how comfortable you are. For the most part your local bonfire is going to be held in a muddy field so you want to make sure you’re feet are dressed for the occasion – I tend to go for sturdy walking boots or wellies with thick socks to keep our toes toasty and dry. If you’re planning on keeping off the field and are perhaps a bit more worried about looking stylish then a pair of black ankle Doc Martens are always a good option for autumnal style!
Beanies and Hats
Keep your head warm with a beanie or a stylish hat. We all know the myth that you lose 50% of your body heat through your head – and whilst this isn’t strictly true, putting a hat on really does make a huge difference to keeping you warm. This is where I like to add a bit of colour to make the kids easier to spot – especially as they tend to choose darker coats now they are older!
Gloves or Mittens
If you plan on toasting marshmallows, using sparklers or simply want to keep your hands warm, pack a pair of gloves or mittens – my favourites are a pair of Barbour waterproof mittens which keep my fingers incredibly warm but also mean I have little dexterity! The kids like sports gloves as they tend to be thinner and neater so they can still use their hands easily.
As I said at the start, the key to deciding what to wear for bonfire night is layers and practicality, the style bit is definitely the last thing I think about for standing in a dark field watching fireworks. Hope these tips help you to put together the perfect bonfire night outfit to stay warm and dry and that you have a lovely bonfire night this year!
Have a look at these posts next:
The best bonfires and fireworks events in and around Manchester this year
If you have enjoyed this post and found it helpful, here are a few ways you can say thanks and support We’re going on an adventure:
Click here to buy me a virtual coffee – it’s like a little tip jar but with caffeine!
I’d love for you to tag me in any photos of your adventures on Social Media if one of my posts has inspired you to visit
Click here to leave We’re going on an adventure a Google Review
Share this post with your friends – you’ll be helping me and them!
Follow We’re going on an adventure on Facebook or Instagram
great post, totally agree bonfires are amazing.