Table of Contents
NEW Year’s Eve partygoers have expressed their dissatisfaction with this year’s fireworks display, labeling it a “rip-off.”
Approximately 100,000 people gathered along the banks of the River Thames to enjoy the fireworks display.
The London fireworks used to be free for spectators until 2014Credit: Getty
Many enjoyed the fireworks, but the transition to ‘Wicked’ was confusing and deemed excessiveCredit: BBC
However, after the event, many took to social media to voice their concerns about the high ticket prices and a view that was “absolutely terrible.”
Content creator Alex Dodman shared with his 200,000 followers, “My ticket cost £45 for the green zone, located behind the London Eye, where you’re all crammed in like sheep.”
“If you've ever wondered whether you're missing out by not going into London to see their famous New Year’s Eve fireworks display, don't worry, you're not,” he added.
“It’s absolutely terrible.”
About 100,000 attendees lined the River Thames to witness this year's fireworks celebration.
Held every New Year’s Eve, the event is designed to thrill those looking to celebrate the evening.
Yet, many have echoed Alex's sentiments regarding the steep ticket prices for the display.
Prior to 2014, both Brits and tourists could enjoy the NYE fireworks and use the underground transport for free.
However, the then-mayor altered that by introducing ticket sales for the fireworks each subsequent year.
Free underground travel was also eliminated in 2020 due to the financial strains caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
As people feel the pinch in their wallets, the £45 cost of a ticket to see fireworks that were once free has left many feeling frustrated.
But that wasn't the only source of annoyance for attendees, as the large crowd meant people were squeezed into viewing areas.
Alex described the “massive” throng of people waiting for the show to start as being “herded in like sheep.”
“If you're someone who experiences anxiety, this would be your worst nightmare,” he added.
Once the fireworks began, the resident remarked that his view—located right next to a construction site—was “absolutely awful.”
The content creator later mentioned that when he rewatched the display, it seemed “definitely designed for television.”
“This is no exaggeration; it was one of the worst nights I've ever had,” he concluded in his post.
Many of Alex's followers responded to his post in agreement, with one attendee stating, “I’d rather rip my face off and throw salt on it.”
The London Mayor expressed that he was “delighted” with London’s NYE fireworks display, claiming it to be “the greatest in the world.”
He stated, “We invest a lot of time and effort into curating our New Year’s Eve celebrations – the theme for tonight’s event is togetherness.”
Millions of Brits watched the live broadcast of the fireworksCredit: Ben Whitley/PA Wire
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did people feel disappointed with this year's fireworks display?
Many attendees were frustrated due to the high ticket prices and crowded viewing areas, which diminished their experience.
What changes were made to the fireworks event since 2014?
Since 2014, tickets have been sold for the fireworks display, which used to be free for spectators. Additionally, free underground travel was removed in 2020.
What did the Mayor say about the fireworks display?
The Mayor expressed his delight with the fireworks display, calling it “the greatest in the world” and emphasizing the theme of togetherness for the



