Free firework displays in Essex this Bonfire Night
Bonfire Night is coming up soon, and there’s a whole host of events taking place all over the county that you can go to. We’ve rounded up a few free firework displays in Essex that you can visit.
6 free firework displays in Essex
1. Fireworks in Southend
There will be a free firework display every Saturday night from 27 September to 15 November 2025 on Southend Seafront. The display will start from 7.30-8pm depending on the month you go.
The fireworks are set off from a barge out in the Estuary, east of Southend Pier, meaning you can get a fantastic, uninterrupted view of the displays anywhere from Sea-Life Adventure to Genting Casino.
2. Fireworks in Saffron Walden
Saffron Walden Round Table is back with its annual charity firework display on Saturday 8 November 2025. While there's no set entry fee, they are gratefully accepting donations that will be put back into the local community. They suggest a donation of around £5 per person.
Head to The Common, Saffron Waldon from 5pm, with the fireworks and laser show starting at around 7pm.
3. Fireworks in Harlow
Harlow Council's annual free firework display will be taking place at the Showground in Harlow Town Park on Sunday 2 November 2025. Get there at 6.15pm in time to see the bonfire being lit, and marvel at the fireworks from 6.30pm.
4. Fireworks in Clacton
If you live in Clacton or fancy a day by the seaside, Clacton Pier hosts free firework displays throughout the year, including on Saturday 8 November from 8pm.
There will also be an earlier low-noise fireworks display for younger guests and those sensitive to noise. Meanwhile, some displays are set to music for an even more memorable experience.
5. Fireworks in Mersea Island
Waldegraves Holiday Park on Mersea Island, just outside of Colchester, has an annual firework display, taking place on 8 November this year. Gates open at 5pm, with the display starting at 7.30pm.
Entry to see the display is free, but there is a £10 per car parking fee, which must be paid in cash. All the money will go to local charities.
They’ll also have live music, hot food and drinks, and rides for children. You can find out more information on their Facebook event.
6. Fireworks in Hatfield Peverel
Hatfield Peverel Cricket Club is gratefully accepting any donations for entry to their firework display on 8 November, but there's no set admission fee. Last year there was a live DJ, hot food, a toy stall, and more to enjoy.
Other Bonfire Night events
We’d encourage you to attend an organised event this Bonfire Night as safety measures will be in place, and most gardens are too small to safely host your own event. Essex Tourist Guide has compiled a more detailed list of other events taking place in the coming weeks.
Staying safe this Bonfire Night
Staying safe across the weekend ensures that everyone can have a good time. Here are our top tips for staying safe around fireworks and bonfires.
- Make sure bonfires are well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees, and shrubs.
- Never use flammable liquids, such as paraffin or petrol, to light the fire.
- Never leave your bonfire burning unattended, and always pour water on the embers before leaving.
- Keep fireworks in a closed non-flammable box when you’re not using them. Never put them in your pocket.
- Wear gloves when handling sparklers, and don’t give them to children under five.
- Light fireworks at arms length with a taper then stand well back. Never go near a firework that has been lit, even if it hasn’t gone off.
For more advice, Essex Fire and Rescue Service have a dedicated page on their website around firework and bonfire safety.
Pets and fireworks
For pet owners, Bonfire Night can be a worrying time. Dogs Trust has guidance and support on what to do if your dog is fearful of fireworks, and Cats Protection has information on how to keep your pet safe, and as calm as possible during firework season.