Tag Archives: flaming tar barrels

“Flaming tar barrels”

In the UK,  you can find some crazy traditions! One such is called “Flaming Tar Barrels” and takes part on 5th November every year in Devon.

On this day people carry flaming soaked in tar barrels on their back/shoulders across the streets of Ottery St Mary. The participants are often cheered along by a huge group of onlookers, especially novices.

The origins are unknown – although there is a link with gunpowder, the date of the event only moved to Bonfire Night relatively recently, and it is thought that perhaps it relates to a local strength contest.

On our picture you can see a group of Flaming Tar Barrels participants taking part on a parade!

This picture is from Quirkyguide.com!