Bonfire Night Fun

Last night we had a really great time with our friends out in the back garden of our house.  I haven't really held a fireworks' party before, but I was inspired to have a go after hearing Matthew De Abaitau speak about camping at the Edinburgh Book Festival over the summer.  Matthew talked about bonfires being the new dinner party and that the idea of sitting around a formal table while some poor host and hostess are run off their feet impressing with multiple courses and fine wines, has really had it's day.  And I have to say, I think he is 100% correct.

Last night everyone brought some food and drinks round to our house, along with a few bangers and catherine wheels.  We had everything brought along from yum-tastic beetroot houmous to lovely cheeses, oatcakes, proper baked in the oven baked tatties and a totally top-tastic Sticky Toffee Pudding (forever to be known as STP from now on!)  JW made the Bean Chilli and all I had to do was put out a few cups and plates and set up my Dusty Bin Burner, (my favourite piece of gardening equipment!)

Everyone had a good time, even the babies enjoyed the fireworks!  And because everyone was chipping in, I think we all felt that we had contributed to the party, which made for a great atmosphere.  It was much better than me hogging the limelight all evening with my (average) culinary skills.

The only thing I would do differently next time would be to set up a few more jam jar candles, as it was quite a challenge for folks to see what they were putting on their plates.....however, as a result, we did get a fantastic view of the stars.