Himley fireworks visitors urged to use free buses after all 22,000 tickets sell out
People are being urged to use free bus services to attend one of the biggest bonfire night celebrations in the region after it sold out.
The popular Himley bonfire has completely sold out, with 22,000 set to attend the firework display on Saturday night.
It is the second successive year the event has sold out in advance, with people warned not to turn up without a ticket as there will be none available to buy on the gate.
Those with tickets are being urged to use one of the free bus services on offer all over the borough, or the new park and ride service in operation for the first time this year.
The event in 2021 was marred by congestion around the park and people going home having been unable to access the park or get a parking space.
Councillor Shaun Keasey, cabinet member responsible for commercial events, said he would strongly urge people to use the services ahead of what he said would be a good night.
He said: "I would urge people who have tickets to strongly consider using the free bus services or the new park and ride we have established this year.
"I’m absolutely delighted that the bonfire and fireworks show at Himley has sold out well in advance for the second year in a row.
"It is the region’s biggest and best firework display and the ticket sales reflect that, with well over 20,000 set to be in attendance on Saturday.
"They are in for an absolute treat as well, because as well as the usual bonfire and fireworks we will have more live entertainment on the main stage this year than ever before.
"If you haven’t got a ticket in advance please do not turn up on the night as there are none available on the gate and we don’t want people to be turned away disappointed.
"It’s going to be an incredible night, and I can’t wait."
The event will see a 30-minute firework display, set to music inspired by the story of ‘Around the World in 80 Days’.
It will also include a large bonfire, giant funfair, street entertainment performances, a night market and food from around the world.
There will be live entertainment on the main stage from 6pm, with bhangra drummers Hit the Dhol, P!nk tribute artist Vicky Jackson and DJ Stuart Ojelay all set to perform.
Gates open at 4.30pm, with the bonfire set to be lit at 7.45pm and fireworks from 8.30pm and the event is supported by Whittaker Bros Ltd and is sponsored by Heart 100.7, K2 Security, Jewson and Halesowen College.
How to get to Himley Bonfire and Fireworks
Free shuttle bus
The free shuttle bus operated by National Express will run to and from locations across the Dudley borough for those with tickets to the display.
Pick-up locations include Dudley, Stourbridge and Halesowen bus stations, Kingswinford Cross, Quarry Bank High Street, Sedgley Bull Ring, Roseville in Coseley, Wombourne Church, Cradley Railway Station and Waterfront East carpark at Merry Hill.
Park and ride
A limited park and ride service is available on a first-come, first-served basis from Col's car boot sale field. The field can be found between Sandiacre farm shop and Waggon & Horses pub on the B4176 Himley bypass, with the postcode WV5 0LU. Free shuttle buses will run from the location every 12 minutes. Parking costs £6 per vehicle, which must be paid on the day by cash. Spaces cannot be pre-booked.
Car parking
There is limited parking at Himley Hall, which is available by cash on the day at £8.
For more details about the event, go to himleyhallandpark.co.uk/bonfire-tickets and himleyhallandpark.co.uk/bonfire-faqs.
