Leicester’s Abbey Park is gearing up to light up the night sky once again as the city’s biggest bonfire and firework display returns on Saturday, 1 November.
This year’s event promises a thrilling mix of Halloween-themed fun, live entertainment, and dazzling pyrotechnics, transforming Abbey Park into a family-friendly spectacle packed with spooky surprises.
Picture credit: Leicester City Council
The gates open at 5pm, kicking off an evening of entertainment hosted by BBC Radio Leicester’s Ady Dayman and Laurie Dyche. Live performances from local artists LVT, Recode, and Comprehend will set the tone before Showstoppers’ “Rave at the Grave” brings a singalong dance party led by Morticia and Gomez Addams, featuring appearances from Disney villains and other spooky favourites.
At 6.45pm, children and families can enjoy a quieter firework display and the lighting of the bonfire by “Funny Bones,” a pyrotechnic skeleton. Joining the fun will be Pudsey Bear and Filbert Fox, while the high-energy performance troupe Fire & Sparks deliver a breathtaking mix of flames, light, and artistry.
The main fireworks display will take place at 8pm, following a lively 90s-themed music set by 90s Rewind and another dazzling Fire & Sparks performance. The evening will wrap up with music from Strizzy Strauss and Deiah at 9pm.
Throughout the park, visitors can expect roaming costumed performers — including a glow-up pumpkin, a three-headed skeleton, and a majestic Monarch butterfly — alongside a funfair, licensed bars, and a variety of hot food stalls.
Assistant City Mayor Cllr Vi Dempster said the Abbey Park event remains one of Leicester’s best-loved traditions.
“This year, with the event following hot on the heels of Halloween, we’ve invited some playful ghosts and creepy creatures along to add a spooky twist,” she said. “It promises to be a brilliant night out for families and friends of all ages. Buy your tickets early to get the best deal — and remember, no tickets will be sold on the gate.”
Early bird tickets are now available, with a family ticket priced at £28 (plus booking fee). Prices rise on the day of the event, when family tickets will cost £40. Admission is free for children aged four and under.
Tickets can be purchased online at visitleicester.info/bonfire or in person at the De Montfort Hall box office on Granville Road to avoid booking fees.
The event takes place four days before Bonfire Night, which falls on Wednesday, 5 November this year.
Organisers are also appealing to local businesses to donate wooden pallets for the bonfire. Donations can be arranged with the city council’s festivals team via festivals@leicester.gov.uk, with deliveries to be made to Abbey Park on Friday, 31 October.
