Why are pie and peas traditional on bonfire night?

You're thinking of pie and mash, not pie and peas, which is traditionally eaten on Bonfire Night (also known as Guy Fawkes Night) in the UK.

While there isn't a definitive historical link between pie and mash and Bonfire Night, there are several reasons why they are considered a traditional pairing:

* Seasonality: Bonfire Night falls in November, which is traditionally a time for hearty, comforting food. Pie and mash fits this description perfectly.

* Availability: Potatoes and meat (often beef or mince) were staples in the British diet, making pie and mash a relatively inexpensive and accessible meal for most people.

* Comfort Food: The warmth and richness of pie and mash would have been a welcome treat on a chilly November night.

* Social Gathering: Bonfire Night is a time for community gatherings and celebrations. Sharing a comforting meal like pie and mash would have added to the social aspect of the occasion.

It's important to note that the specific origin of the tradition is unclear. However, the combination of factors mentioned above likely contributed to its popularity and association with Bonfire Night.