In pictures: Fireworks light up London’s skyline as 2026 begins

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London welcomed 2026 with a mesmerising fireworks display along the River Thames, lighting up the sky above central London and the London Eye. The pyrotechnic show formed the main attraction of the city’s New Year celebrations, even as winter storms brought harsh conditions to other parts of the United Kingdom. Elsewhere in Europe, including Switzerland, some people marked the New Year by embracing the cold and diving into icy waters.

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Fireworks above the River Thames in central London, marking the arrival of 2026 with a full-scale pyrotechnic show. (Photo source: AP)

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The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, is seen against a background of bursts of colours, as fireworks light the sky during the New Year celebrations in central London. (Photo source: AP).

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Central London’s skyline is illuminated under a curtain of fireworks, changing the riverfront into the city’s main New Year viewing stage. (Photo source: AP)

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 Crowds line the riverside and bridges in central London as fireworks reflect off the Thames. (Photo source: AP)

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Fireworks were seen over the Elizabeth Tower. (Photo source: AP).

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Fireworks arc over bridges and buildings along the Thames, creating a bright background for London’s midnight countdown. (Photo source: AP).

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AP reported that while London’s display went ahead with its grand celebrations, events in Edinburgh were cancelled with storms bringing bitter winter weather in parts of the UK.