The London Eye has been the central visual symbol of London's official New Year's Eve fireworks since the display began in 2000.
London's major public fireworks display is staged along the River Thames, with the London Eye forming a prominent illuminated centerpiece. Fireworks are launched from barges on the river and from structures near the wheel, creating a display visible across central London.
The first large annual London New Year's Eve fireworks display took place at the transition from 1999 to 2000, marking the new millennium. Later celebrations developed into a ticketed event along the river, while broadcasts carried the countdown and fireworks to audiences around the world.
Big Ben is also closely associated with the midnight countdown because its clock chimes mark the hour. However, the London Eye is the landmark most visually identified with the modern fireworks display itself.