Mayor of London fireworks: What time does the New Year's Eve fireworks display start tonight?
Plan your evening as London’s world-famous fireworks return to the Thames. Here’s where to watch the fireworks in London (or on the TV), key timings, ticket information and more.
London’s iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks are back for 2025 as the capital prepares to welcome 2026 along the banks of the River Thames.
The official fireworks display begins tonight, Wednesday, 31 December, with the main pyrotechnics launched at midnight to mark the start of the New Year.
This year’s display is a ticketed event; access to the official viewing areas along Victoria Embankment and around the London Eye is only with a valid ticket, which must be purchased in advance through authorised sellers such as Ticketmaster.
Tickets historically range from around £20 to £50 per person, depending on the zone and whether you are a London resident.
Entry to the viewing areas typically opens from 8pm and closes by 10:30pm, with the event concluding around 12:30am on New Year’s Day.
There are six main ticketed zones, Blue, Red, Pink, Green, White and an accessible Orange area, spread along the riverbanks and bridges, each offering different sightlines towards the London Eye and South Bank fireworks.
For those without official tickets, alternative spots around the city, such as Alexandra Palace, Parliament Hill and some rooftop venues, offer skyline views of the midnight display, though these will be more distant and very busy.
Thames cruises and special venue parties also provide premium experience options with riverside views if official riverside tickets are sold out.
Visitors should plan their transport and arrival well in advance, as central London closes roads and some tube stations early for safety, and stations can be extremely crowded after midnight.
Please note that many of London’s Royal Parks will be closed or have restrictions in place over the New Year’s Eve period, including Primrose Hill, Greenwich Park and St. James’s Park.
How to watch the NYE fireworks from home
Those who prefer to see in the New Year from the comfort of home can still enjoy London’s fireworks live on TV and online. The display will be broadcast live on BBC One, with coverage typically starting shortly before midnight and continuing into the early hours of New Year’s Day.
Viewers can also watch the fireworks live via BBC iPlayer, which will stream the event in real time on smart TVs, laptops, tablets and mobile devices.
The broadcast usually includes live shots of the London Eye and River Thames display, alongside commentary, performances and coverage of celebrations across the capital — making it a popular option for families, those avoiding the crowds, or anyone unable to secure tickets to the riverside event.