With friends
This is an ideal opportunity to invite the neighbours and nearby friends over for the evening. There’s the immediate focus of the event for everyone to chat about, so you’ll never find yourself short of conversational openers – always helpful with people you don’t see that often.
With children
Whether you’re a parent or not, having a brood of gleeful children racing in and out of the garden rekindles the joy of this autumn festival. They get to write their name in the afterglow of a sparkler. They line up to toast marshmallows. And they gasp at the colourful sparkling lightshow above. Which gives all us grown-ups the perfect excuse to do exactly the same things, with just as much child-like glee…
With consideration
It’s a good idea to provide a quieter room, with books and a family-friendly DVD ready to go for those who want to avoid the bangs. Alternatively, keep a pair or two of headphones or extra fluffy earmuffs to hand. They can help muffle the noise and yet still feel a bit fun to wear together.
Without pets
Set aside a safe place for your pets to hide, well ahead of darkness falling. You know your pet best, but they may need a human companion by their side until things are quiet again. If the house is going to be busy, put a polite sign on the door.