London’s hugely popular and internationally acclaimed New Year’s Eve fireworks celebrations, organised by the Mayor of London, have become so successful that the organisers have taken the decision to ticket the event in order to reduce the number of people attending.
This year 100,000 tickets will be available to the public, which will guarantee good views of the fantastic pyrotechnic display and a better visitor experience. People, from anywhere in the UK or abroad, will be able to book up to four tickets from Friday 26 September at 12 noon (UK time), by going to www.london.gov.uk/nye.
Introducing tickets to popular events, similar to the Edinburgh Hogmanay celebrations, is a recognised way of controlling crowd numbers and not a penny of profit will be made from the £10 fee, which will be used to pay for administration costs and ensuring the event is safe.
London is a special place at the turn of the year, the city is lit up and there is a sense of optimism for the year ahead. If you can’t get a ticket to attend the fireworks there are many other amazing events and experiences to enjoy, so long as visitors plan ahead and book in advance.
Since the fireworks were first staged at the London Eye in 2003, the numbers of people wanting to see them have grown from an estimated 100,000 in the first year to 400,000 in 2012 and 500,000 in 2013.
The prime viewing areas have a capacity of 100,000 people, which means the majority of people wanting to watch the display do not get the best view, or are unable to access the areas altogether. The huge crowds also mean long delays leaving the area at the end of the event as revellers make their way to Tube, rail and other public transport services.
For more information about what’s going on in London on New Year’s Eve go to www.visitlondon.com/newyearseve
