Tonight is bonfire night, an annual celebration with roots over 400-years-old.

In 1605 Guy Fawkes was arrested, marking the failure of the gunpowder plot to blow up British parliament and assassinate King James. From that day, an annual event was set to celebrate the plot’s failure.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, the tradition is marked with bonfires and fireworks.

The provincial government, in previous years, has offered a reminder that residents are responsible for ensuring their bonfires remain safe and legal. Do not use flammable liquids or aerosols to build a bonfire, keep extinguishing tools and supplies nearby, and ensure that fires are fully extinguished.

Before setting a bonfire, residents are asked to contact local municipalities or fire departments to check local regulations.

The City of St. John’s has long banned bonfires, but some towns have started holding community-sponsored events, to reduce the risk of personal bonfires getting out of control and causing damage.

Harbour Grace is hosting a community event at 6:30 near the Tourist Chalet on Water Street, while Carbonear is holding its bonfire at 7:00 at Paddy’s Garden.

The Town of Bay Roberts is reminding residents to practice safety when holding their own bonfires, and when possible, attend a community bonfire.