Big Ben's clock is traditionally broadcast at midnight on New Year's Eve in the United Kingdom.
Big Ben is the nickname commonly used for the Great Bell in the Elizabeth Tower at the Palace of Westminster in London. Its chimes are transmitted by broadcasters as the United Kingdom marks the start of the new year, making the sound a familiar part of national celebrations.
Strictly speaking, Big Ben is the bell, not the entire tower or clock. The clock tower was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. The tower's clock is officially the Great Clock of Westminster.
London's midnight broadcasts often show crowds gathered around the River Thames and fireworks near the London Eye. The clock's famous chime should therefore not be confused with the visual fireworks display, and “Big Ben” remains the standard popular answer because the bell supplies the recognizable sound.