Bonfire Night Beer

Bonfire Night is all about contrasts. Bright fireworks against dark skies. Cold air warmed by open flames. Sweet treats, smoky food, and the crackle of a fire pulling friends and family together.

So what should you drink on fireworks night?

The answer isn’t just one beer. Bonfire Night calls for a journey through styles — starting crisp and refreshing, moving into richer, stronger beers as the night draws in. Here’s how to get it right, pint by pint.

Fireworks night beer: where to start

Before the bonfire is roaring and the sky starts popping, you want something refreshing. You’ll likely be standing outside, chatting, snacking. This is not the moment for heavy, boozy beers.

Go crisp, fresh and flavourful

A Belgian witbier is a perfect opening act. Light, gently spiced and hugely drinkable, it cuts through the cold without overwhelming your palate.

A great example:

St Bernardus Wit – citrusy, softly spiced with coriander, creamy from oats and extremely refreshing.

Food pairing tip:
Sausages, hot dogs, roasted corn, jacket potatoes.

Find out more about Belgian beer styles, or check out our complete guide to witbier vs. weissbier.

When the bonfire’s blazing: rich and warming beers

As the fire settles and food hits the grill, it’s time to bring out something darker and deeper. This is where strong ale beer really shines.

Dark ales for smoky flavours

A classic Belgian Dubbel or dark Trappist beer mirrors everything Bonfire Night stands for: toasted malt, caramel, dark fruit and warmth.

A great example:

Westmalle Dubbel – notes of toffee, dried fruit and soft spice, perfect with smoky, grilled food.

Food pairing tip:
Ribs, burgers, sausages, bonfire toffee.

A golden alternative: strong but elegant ales

Not everyone wants to go dark. If you prefer something golden but still warming, look for a strong Belgian blond or grand cru-style ale.

A great example:

St-Feuillien Grand Cru – deceptively light, aromatic, fruity and dry with a warming 9.5% ABV.

This is a brilliant Bonfire Night beer when you want strength without heaviness.

Late-night sippers: beers for the dying embers

When the fireworks fade and the fire glows low, it’s time to slow things down. This is where contemplative beers come into their own: rich, layered and warming.

Barley wine & winter warmers

A barley wine or winter beer is made for moments like this. Deep malt sweetness, dried fruit, gentle bitterness and a warming alcohol glow.

A great example:

Emelisse Barley Wine – rich, fruity, slightly herbal with vanilla and spice.

Bonfire Night at home with BLADE & BeerTender

Watching fireworks from the garden? Hosting friends? You can still enjoy pub-quality pints without leaving home.

Bonfire-friendly BLADE kegs

Our selected BLADE kegs for Bonfire Night are perfect for groups and easy pouring outdoors:

• Lagunitas IPA – crisp bitterness for earlier in the evening

• Brixton Reliance Pale Ale – balanced, sessionable and crowd-pleasing

• Heineken – classic, cold and endlessly drinkable

BeerTender & 5L kegs for Fireworks Night

These BeerTender compatible 5L draught kegs are great for sharing and quick setup:

• Affligem Blonde – warming, aromatic and food-friendly

• Gallia Champ Libre – rich, floral and ideal as temperatures drop

The best beer for Bonfire Night? Take it slow

Bonfire Night isn’t about rushing. Start light, move into richer beers, and finish with something to savour. Whether you’re drinking a crisp witbier under fireworks or a strong ale by the embers, the right beer makes the night feel complete.

Stay warm, drink well, and have a safe and happy Bonfire Night.