Thousands of people are expected to gather at Bught Park next Thursday as Inverness prepares for one of its most popular annual celebrations, with a towering bonfire and spectacular fireworks lighting up the November sky.
The Highland Council has confirmed that the city’s free Civic Bonfire and Fireworks Display will return on Thursday 5 November, bringing families, friends and visitors together for an evening of traditional celebrations.
The festivities begin at 5pm when the catering village opens, giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy food and refreshments before the main attractions.
At 6pm, one of Scotland’s largest community bonfires will be lit, followed by a musical fireworks display at approximately 7pm.
The fireworks will be provided by the award winning Fireworx Scotland team, whose display will form the centrepiece of the evening.
The enormous bonfire is constructed by Highland Council staff using hundreds of wooden pallets donated by businesses across the Inverness area.
Thanks to financial support from the Inverness Common Good Fund, the event remains completely free to attend.
Provost of Inverness and Area Glynis Campbell Sinclair said:
“We’re delighted to once again bring Inverness’ free community bonfire and fireworks display to Bught Park.
“This much-loved event is a highlight of the city’s calendar and offers people of all ages the opportunity to come together and enjoy a fantastic evening in a safe and welcoming environment.
“Thanks to support from the Inverness Common Good Fund, the event remains free to attend and we’re looking forward to welcoming the many thousands of residents and visitors who join us each year.
“As we prepare for bonfire night, we would encourage everyone to enjoy the celebrations safely by attending organised displays.
“We hope everyone who comes along has a memorable evening and enjoys another spectacular show.”
With large crowds anticipated, arrangements are being put in place to help people reach the event safely.
The Infirmary Bridge will be closed on Bonfire Night to protect pedestrians and prevent excessive crowd loading on the structure.
Visitors who would normally use the bridge are advised to plan an alternative walking route to Bught Park.
Parking restrictions will also be introduced around the Bught area on Thursday 5 November, with priority access maintained for emergency services, local residents and disabled drivers.
A designated parking area for Blue Badge holders will be available at the city centre end of the Bught Park grandstand.
Drivers using that area should enter near the junction of Torvean Avenue and Dunachton Road.
Other motorists are being encouraged to use city centre car parks and walk to the event rather than attempting to park close to Bught Park.
Families should allow plenty of time for their journey, particularly as thousands of spectators are expected to arrive before the bonfire is lit.
Warm clothing and suitable footwear are recommended, as the event takes place outdoors and some walking areas may be uneven.
Visitors are also asked to remain within the designated viewing areas and follow instructions from stewards and event announcers.
With the bonfire ready to blaze and another colourful display planned above the River Ness, Inverness is preparing for an evening that has become a much loved tradition for generations of Highland families.
