Thorpe Blast 2008

Here's our review photos of Thorpe's Bonfire Night Extravaganza:

TTP Review:

"2008 was the second year for Thorpe's Fireworks event, and it exceeded all expectations, beating last year's (great) display and then some. The Park once again opened from 10am - 8pm, and it felt like the Park was throwing a party - every ride was playing party tunes all day (Macarena, Cotton Eye Joe, 5,6,7,8, anyone?) instead of the usual ride themes. The atmosphere was electric, everyone seemed to be having a good time, and despite the cold November wind, the event was once again a success. Small criticisms can be levied at the fact that Thorpe hadn't really cleared up after Fright Nights (The Curse tent and Rush's theming were still there), and both Stealth and Slammer were out of action for the whole day, but ride reliability has never been Thorpe's strong point!

The Fireworks

This year's display, starting at 7pm, was markedly different from last year's. Gone were the low level colourful fireworks, and in were higher, bigger, louder rockets. The display was once again set on the lake, which is a magnificent backdrop - but this year fireworks were being launched from the left hand bank to the lake as well, so guests enjoyed double the spectacle with fireworks coming in from all angles!

As with last year, the area in front of Zodiac was cordoned off and only a set number of people allowed through so as to avoid crushing. Those who did get to reach this area were treated to a superior view (get there early folks!). Music used this year included: Utah Saints - Something Good is Going to Happen, Take That - Rule The World, Fat Boy Slim - Right Here Right Now and The Prodigy - Firestarter. The display itself seemed a little shorter than last year, but that was more than made up for the content, which didn't seem to let up. The display lasted around 10 minutes, with a breathtaking finale from one of the biggest fireworks I've seen (see below photo).

I find this event to be Thorpe Park's most underrated. Fright Nights always steal the limelight, but comes marred with massive queues, security issues and outrageous Fastrack prices. Thorpe Blast offers a superb end to the Season - during my visit I didn't experience any queue longer than 30 minutes, and everyone was smiling and enjoying themselves. Special mention must go to my last ride on Samurai in the dark; it was one of the best rides I've had on it in a long time, almost mirroring its glory days at Chessington. Bravo Thorpe Park - and long may Thorpe Blast continue!"

Photos: