As the final echoes of Big Ben's chimes fade on New Year's Eve, London prepares for another spectacular tradition to welcome 2026. The world-famous London New Year's Day Parade offers a vibrant, family-friendly alternative for those who missed the fireworks, transforming the heart of the capital into a stage of music and colour.
When and Where: Parade Timings and Key Details
The 2026 edition of this beloved event will commence at 1:00 PM on Thursday, January 1, 2026. The procession will begin its journey in Green Park and is scheduled to conclude in the Westminster area approximately two and a half hours later, around 3:30 PM.
Now in its fourth decade, the parade has become a cornerstone of London's festive calendar. It consistently draws crowds of up to half a million spectators who line the streets to enjoy a dazzling display of international marching bands, energetic cheerleaders, elaborate floats, and performers from across the globe.
The 2026 Parade Route Through Central London
The procession will follow a iconic path through some of London's most famous landmarks. Starting at Green Park, the parade will head east towards the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus, passing the iconic Eros statue.
From there, it turns south down Regent Street St James's before taking a left onto the grand Pall Mall. The route then offers a brief pass by Trafalgar Square before proceeding down Whitehall, finally reaching its end point at Westminster. The entire journey covers a distance that takes roughly three hours to complete at parade pace.
For those wishing to plan their viewing spot meticulously, a detailed map of the exact route is published on the official London New Year's Day Parade website.
Do You Need Tickets for the London New Year's Day Parade?
In excellent news for revellers, the event remains a wonderfully accessible celebration. No tickets are required to watch the parade from the streets. All members of the public are welcome to find a spot anywhere along the published route and enjoy the festivities completely free of charge.
This policy ensures the event stays true to its community spirit, allowing everyone to join in and celebrate the start of the new year together. Simply wrap up warm, pick your preferred vantage point, and immerse yourself in a joyful afternoon of spectacular entertainment.
