The London Eye is illuminated during London’s New Year’s Eve fireworks celebration beside the River Thames.
London’s annual event centers on the South Bank and the river near the London Eye. Fireworks are launched from barges on the Thames and from locations around the Eye, producing a display designed to be viewed from central London and broadcast to audiences beyond the city.
The London Eye, also called the Millennium Wheel, opened to the public in 2000. Its large circular outline makes it a distinctive part of the skyline and an effective visual anchor for the countdown. The display also features views of the Palace of Westminster and the Elizabeth Tower, whose clock is commonly referred to as Big Ben.
Big Ben is a frequent alternative answer because its chimes are associated with midnight in London. Strictly speaking, Big Ben is the nickname of the great bell, not the tower. The landmark prominently illuminated in the riverside fireworks spectacle is the London Eye.