A dazzling display of pyrotechnics and lights will be seen in the night sky as Londoners across the capital celebrate New Year's Eve.
Organised by the Mayor of London, the free fireworks display will be focused around the EDF Energy London Eye, watched by large crowds gathered along the banks of the River Thames. Millions more will see it live on television across the UK and around the world.
The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: 'Our New Year's Eve fireworks will cap a triumphant year for London. As we welcomed the world to the magnificent celebrations for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the glorious success of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, London was at its very best. From the thrilling sporting action to the breathtaking cultural celebrations, it has been an unforgettable year and I am immensely proud of the contribution that our Ambassadors made to that success. As we go into 2013 with a spectacular fireworks display I hope we can build on that energy and enthusiasm to make ours the best big city in the world.'
Revellers wishing to see in the New Year in central London are advised to plan ahead and in particular be prepared for large crowds, on the streets and at venues.
Many pubs, bars and clubs will be ticketed with advance booking required, so some people may want to celebrate elsewhere.
The Mayor of London's New Year's Eve fireworks display is always enormously popular. Each year it attracts a capacity crowd, who have a long wait in the designated viewing areas along the Thames. There is limited space with the viewing areas likely to be full by 9pm or 10pm.
Access to each zone will be closed as soon as it is full. Due to the crowds and waiting time people with young children may wish to consider celebrating the New Year closer to home. People will also be able to watch the display live on BBC One.
Public transport will be the best way to get around the capital on New Year's Eve. Tube, DLR, tram and selected National Rail services in Greater London will run all night. Night and 24 hour bus routes will run as normal, but there will be a reduction in bus services leaving central London from around 5pm to around 3am on New Year's morning because of road closures.
There will be free London travel, sponsored by Diageo GB, on bus, Tube, tram and DLR from 11:45pm until 4:30am and on London Overground until last trains.
Please plan your return journey in advance and be patient if your return journey involves queuing before boarding your train, bus or tram.
Notes to editors
More information can be found at www.london.gov.uk/nye
Information about events and attractions throughout Christmas and into New Year can be found at www.visitlondon.com/christmas
Information to help you plan your journey over the same period will be available at www.tfl.gov.uk/festive from 7 December 2012.
OTHER KEY EVENTS CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Trafalgar Square Thursday 6 December, 6pm-7pm
The annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony will take place in Trafalgar Square on Thursday 6 December, followed by the Sunday 9 December. The tree is a present from the Norwegian capital of Oslo to the citizens of London, given as a gift for over 60 years as a token of gratitude for Britain's support during World War II. The tree is set to be in place until 4 January 2013. After being taken down the tree will be chipped and composted, for recycling as mulch.
BLESSING OF THE CRIB Trafalgar Square Sunday 9 December 5.30pm-6.30pm Blessing of the St Martin-in-the-Fields crib. More details will be available at www.smitf.org.
TRAFALGAR SQUARE CAROLS Tuesday 11 to Sunday 23 December 5pm to 9pm each night The popular annual carol singing programme organised by the Mayor of London takes place beneath the tree, with charities and other organisations able to raise funds for good causes every evening. This year's programme is already fully subscribed.
CHANUKAH Trafalgar Square Saturday 8 to Sunday 16 December The giant Menorah will return to Trafalgar Square to mark the Jewish Festival of Chanukah. There will be an official lighting ceremony on Monday 10 December, 5pm-8pm.
MAYOR'S CAROL SERVICE Southwark Cathedral Montague Close, London SE1 9DA Monday 17 December 6:30pm for 7pm start This year's Mayor's Carol Service starts at 7pm prompt and lasts an hour. The event is free to attend and members of the public are welcome to join GLA staff, as well as representatives from different businesses, community organisations and faith groups. There will be a selection of congregational Christmas carols, a variety of biblical and secular readings/poems and guest choirs performing a selection of songs. The service is open to the public on a first come first served basis – get there early as seats get taken up quickly.
NEW YEAR'S DAY PARADE Tuesday 1 January 2013 Central London Thousands take part in the lively and colourful parade, including participants from around the world. For more details www.londonparade.co.uk Media information and accreditation: [email protected]