The Friends of Ashlands Primary School have announced that Ilkley’s much-loved Bonfire & Fireworks Spectacular will return on Saturday 8 November 2025, taking place in the grounds of the school on Leeds Road.
A highlight of the town’s community calendar, the event promises a safe, welcoming, and family-friendly evening of bonfire fun and dazzling fireworks.
For many Ilkley families, Ashlands’ Bonfire Night has become a tradition - a chance to gather with friends, neighbours, and loved ones on a crisp autumn evening. The event has grown year on year thanks to the hard work of parent volunteers, school alumni and the incredible support of the local community. It’s not just about the fireworks, but about creating lasting memories: children clutching toffee apples, families huddled around the warmth of the fire, and friends sharing food and drink.
Alongside the spectacular fireworks display, visitors will enjoy delicious hot food, including vegetarian options, as well as a tuck shop for sweet treats and hot drinks. Three licensed bars will be open, serving a range of drinks, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The event is designed to be welcoming to all ages, with under 5s attending free of charge.
Every ticket sold helps raise vital funds for Ashlands Primary School PTA. The money raised directly supports the children by providing new equipment, resources, and opportunities that would not otherwise be possible.
Chair of Friends of Ashlands, Nicola Holmes said
“This is so much more than a fireworks display. It’s a way for the whole community to come together, celebrate safely, and support our school. The funds we raise go straight back into enriching the education of our children, and we are always humbled by the turnout. It’s a real testament to the spirit of Ilkley.”
The event is open to the whole community, not just Ashlands families, and everyone is warmly invited to join in. For safety reasons there is no parking on the school site, and attendees are asked to park considerately in nearby streets. As always, the event is run entirely by parent volunteers and school alumni, volunteers giving their time freely to make the evening a success.
Tickets are expected to sell quickly and prices are designed to be family-friendly, with a family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) costing £20, adult tickets £6, and child tickets £5, while under 5s can attend free of charge. Tickets can be purchased online via Ticketebo, with entry on the night simply by showing email confirmation on a smartphone.
Gates will open at 5:30 pm, with the bonfire lit at 6:15 pm. The fireworks display will take place at 7:30 pm and the event will close at around 9:00 pm.
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