The Tar Barrels of Ottery St Mary 2024 in England

One of the most colorful and unusual Bonfire Night traditions in England

Dates: November 5

Every year, the small East Devon town called Ottery St Mary witnesses a spectacular tradition—hundreds of people crowd the narrow streets as the flaming tar barrels are carried through the downtown. Several runners grab blazing barrels, hoist them on their shoulders, and race them through the town to the great delight of thousands of spectators.

History of the Tradition

This Ottery tradition originated in the 17th century and is held each year on November 5th, known as Guy Fawkes Night or Bonfire Night. On this day, the British celebrate the explosion of the famous Gunpowder Plot of 1605 to blow up the Parliament and when King James I had barely survived the attempt on his life. Many cities in England have fireworks and bonfires on that night, and flaming tar barrels are a common tradition as well. However, in other towns, people roll the barrels through the streets, not run with them. That's why Ottery's customs seem so unique.

Festival Highlights

Running with the flaming tar barrels is considered to be a great honor despite health and safety regulations and concerns. To become a Barrel Roller, one must either be born in Ottery or own a business there. Each barrel is sponsored by one of the town's central pubs. The barrels soaked with tar are set on fire in front of the pubs, and once the fire starts to pour out, they are put on locals' backs and shoulders to be carried through the streets.

Ottery's Bonfire Night also features the parade and the usual Guy Fawkes bonfire. The evening concludes in the town square with the largest barrel, called the Midnight Barrel.

Dates & Schedule

The Tar Barrels is a highly popular event, drawing up to 15,000 visitors from around the globe. Roads are closed starting around 4 pm, but buses and coaches are provided to transport people into town and back afterward. This unique and thrilling event offers a memorable way to celebrate Bonfire Night.

November 5th is the traditional date for the Tar Barrels, only shifting if it falls on a Sunday. In that case, the procession and fireworks usually take place on the Saturday before. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early—this is one of the most popular events of the year.