How do I purchase tickets?
You can only purchase online via our website. http://farnhamroundtable.org.uk/events/fireworktickets/
How do I purchase a torch?
When you have selected your tickets you will get the option to purchase a flaming torch. Note that you must be over 18 to hold the torch, please do not pass them to someone under 18. There are novelties available for younger participants. There is a limited number of torches available, please get your tickets asap to guarantee a place in the amazing torchlit procession!
How do I join the procession?
All those with tickets for torches should come to Waggon Yard before 6pm in time to get their torch and join the procession behind the Reading Scottish Piper Band. We will scan your tickets and provide you with wrist bands for swift entry to the park. The procession leaves at 6:15. Other attendees of the fireworks can join the procession as it moves up through the town, please go through the ticket gate when you get to the park so that your ticket is scanned.
How long do the fireworks last for?
Approximately 15 minutes, they are set off about 7:45. A professional fireworks company are employed to manage the fireworks and put on a fantastic display for the town.
Are there toilets?
Yes, there are a number of toilets and urinals. These can be found in the car park beside the event, check out the event map for the location.
How long does the event last?
The event starts with the park opening at 5pm and goes on until 9pm. Go to our map which has the full details of what is on and where!
I’ve lost my child, what can be done to help find them?
Please report to the Info tent (near the main entrance) as soon as possible. If they haven’t already been found we will put out messages on the PA system and alert our marshals. Any lost children will be brought to the Info tent by our marshals. The event can get very busy, and with it being dark please caution your children in advanced to stay close and if they do get lost to find a marshal in a high viz for assistance.
I’ve got an issue with my ticket, who do I contact?
Email fireworks@farnhamroundtable.org.uk and we’ll respond as soon as possible. If you are at the event and trying to enter, speak to a gate marshal and they will see what they can do.
Doesn’t the council run the fireworks?
No, it’s a bunch of volunteers from across the community. Led by the Farnham Round Table we have helpful volunteers from various groups (Scouts, PTAs, Farnham Youth Choir, 41 Club). The council review our event management plans and provide us with the bookings to use the park, car parks and approve the road closures but other than that they are not directly involved!
Where do I park my car?
There are no car park facilities in the park for the event. Please park in the town centre and walk to the event, or park up above Folly Hill (Drove road area) and walk down. Please be considerate of where you park and do not block any entrances or cause an issue for other vehicles to pass. There are a number of car parks about the town, note that Waggon Yard is closed for the torchlit procession. https://www.waverley.gov.uk/Services/Parking/Car-parks/Farnham-car-parks
Even better, do consider using public transport!.
What about parking for blue badge holders?
We have a limited number of spaces in the park car park for blue badge holders, please email fireworks@farnhamroundtable.org.uk to request one. Will be first come first served. Note that you will need to arrived before 6pm and you won’t be able to leave until the road closures are lifted about 8:45pm. If you turn up on the night without a reservation you are unlikely to be able to park.
Is the event suitable for wheelchair users?
The event is in the park which is primarily grass and it normally gets muddy. There are a few tarmac footpaths and small areas of hard standing throughout the park, but you will be limited in where you can go. We also have Birdies incorporated into the event which provides another area you can go to in a wheelchair.
What about first aid?
St Johns ambulance will be providing first aid, their main location is near the main entrance to the park. There will also be assistance moving up with the procession. Please ask a marshal for assistance if need be. Any emergencies do phone 999 in the first instance.
Can I bring a pram?
We would advise to avoid bringing a pram if at all possible. The park does get muddy, so make sure it is suitable for off-road conditions. Also note that the park is on a hill and there are steep sections to get to the event. If you are coming from the town centre you will want to come up and leave during the road closures as otherwise you will have to deal with the Bishops Steps which is about 50 steps up to the castle.
Can I bring sparklers?
No, please do not bring sparklers. We have no arrangements in place for their safe use or disposal and as well as being a hazard we do not want used sparklers scattered around the park.
What food and drink options are there?
Food and drink vendors will be serving from 5pm until 9pm, you can find a range of food vendors in the park (everything from burgers and sausages to thai food and churros as well as local beer from the Hogsback brewery and mulled wine and other drinks supplied by The Hedgehogs). There are also additional food vendors in the car park at Birdies.
Where does the money go?
The Farnham Round Table distributes all profits back to the local community, we have funded everything from sensory gardens, to bursaries for school trips through to enabling groups such as Farnham Community Farm or Farnham Youth Choir run activities for local children. Additionally local groups that assist with the event receive a donation for their efforts.
Obviously there are many expenses in running an event like this, but costs are kept down by relying on volunteers and the good will of the community!
The Farnham Round Table has regular meetings throughout the year to respond to any requests from funds.
What happens if the event is cancelled?
If the event is cancelled (eg due to Met Office severe weather warnings) then we will look to minimise costs as much as possible. Tickets are a non-refundable donation to Farnham Round Table in aid of local causes within our community. We will need to cover costs incurred by the event and we will then make communications to all ticket holders in terms of next steps and any options we are able to put forwards.
I’ve lost my wallet/phone/cuddly toy at the event, where might I find it?
During the event, any lost property handed in will end up at the Info tent. After the event email fireworks@farnhamroundtable.org.uk in case we have picked it up.
How long has the fireworks and procession been run for?
Honestly longer than anyone can remember! There’s a long history of fireworks and processions in Farnham (see this one from 1865!). The Farnham Round Table have been running it since 1976 and have generated lots of money for the local community as well as making a memorable event for the town.
Do you check the bonfire for hedgehogs?
We only build the bonfire the day before the event so there is minimal risk any little critters have decided to make a home in the bonfire.
I want to enter the guy competition, what do I do?
We accept entries from local schools, nurseries and community groups. Contact fireworks@farnhamroundtable.org.uk for more information!
Have you considered a drone display?
The costs of a drone display are currently prohibitive for an event of our size, it’s something we will monitor for the future.
How do I get involved in helping to run the fireworks?
Farnham Round Table is a social group open to men aged 18-45, get in touch and come meet the group at one of our upcoming socials (everything from axe throwing to go-karting): http://farnhamroundtable.org.uk/about-us/contact/. If you are part of a community group that wants to get involved in helping the fireworks be a success, do get in touch and we discuss what opportunities exist.