London is set to welcome 2026 with its spectacular annual fireworks display over the River Thames, drawing crowds to the heart of the capital for a dazzling celebration.
Essential Timings and Ticketing Information
The official pyrotechnic show will begin on Wednesday, 31 December 2025, with the main launch precisely at midnight to herald the New Year. This is a ticketed event, and access to the prime viewing areas along Victoria Embankment and around the London Eye requires a pre-purchased pass. Tickets, which historically cost between £20 and £50, must be bought in advance via authorised sellers like Ticketmaster, with discounts sometimes available for London residents.
Gates to the viewing zones typically open from 8pm and close by 10:30pm, with the entire event concluding around 12:30am on New Year's Day. There are six main ticketed areas—Blue, Red, Pink, Green, White, and an accessible Orange zone—positioned along the riverbanks and bridges, each offering unique sightlines towards the London Eye and South Bank launch sites.
Where to Watch Without an Official Ticket
For those without a ticket, several vantage points across the city offer a more distant but free view of the midnight spectacle. Popular spots include Primrose Hill, Alexandra Palace, and Parliament Hill. Many rooftop venues and bars also capitalise on the skyline views, though these locations become exceptionally busy. Alternative premium experiences, such as Thames cruises or special venue parties, provide another option if riverside tickets are sold out.
Transport planning is crucial. Roads in central London close early for safety, and some Tube stations may restrict entry or exit. Stations are expected to be extremely congested after midnight, so visitors are advised to plan their journey and arrival time well in advance.
How to Watch the London Fireworks from Home
If braving the crowds isn't for you, the celebration can be enjoyed live from home. The BBC will broadcast the display on BBC One, with coverage usually starting just before midnight and continuing into the early hours of New Year's Day. The event will also be streamed live on BBC iPlayer, accessible on smart TVs, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices.
The broadcast typically features live shots of the fireworks from the London Eye and River Thames, accompanied by commentary, performances, and highlights of celebrations across London. This makes it an ideal and popular choice for families, those wishing to avoid the crowds, or anyone unable to secure a coveted ticket to the riverside event.
