Eyam PTFA Bonfire and Firework Display 2025

The much-anticipated Eyam PTFA Bonfire and Firework Display is back on Saturday, November 8, 2025. It promises a night of spectacular fireworks, hearty food and a fascinating, unforgettable village tradition – burn the rat!

This event is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Eyam Primary School, with all funds going directly to the PTFA and supporting the local community. 

Burn the Rat

Eyam’s event has a powerful historical twist. Visitors are invited to help celebrate the burning of the legendary Eyam Rat.

This is no ordinary effigy. The giant, woven willow rat is meticulously crafted by local school students. It acts as a powerful, symbolic depiction of the Eyam plague story of 1665, where the deadly disease was brought into the village on a bolt of cloth.

The event kicks off with a torch-lit procession led by live music. The rat is carried through the village accompanied by the local chant of “Burn the Rat!”. It is then placed upon a towering bonfire and set ablaze. This unique ritual leads directly into a spectacular, choreographed firework display that lights up the Peak District sky.

Entertainment and Schedule

The fun starts in the Eyam Village Square with early entertainment kicking off at 5:30 PM.

Make sure you’re there for 6:15 PM when the live music and torch-lit procession begins, leading the Eyam Rat through the village to the bonfire site.

Feast Your Eyes (and Your Stomach)

Nothing beats the chill of an autumn evening like good, comforting food and drink. Warm up by the bonfire and treat yourself to a delicious selection of local favourites and classics:

• Jacket potatoes with rich chilli or baked beans and cheese, and farmhouse sausage hotdogs.
• Homemade soup, traditional roast chestnuts, and classic parkin.
• Bags of bonfire toffee
• Locally brewed Eyam beers and ciders, spiced mulled wine, and a selection of hot and cold drinks.

Get Your Tickets Early

This hugely popular event is always a sell-out, so make sure you secure your tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Tickets go on sale from October 1st and can be purchased from:

• Eyam Village Shop
• The Miners Arms
• Calver Spar

More information.

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