The Mayor and City of London police have cautioned against illegitimate websites
The Mayor of London is urging people to avoid websites selling fake tickets to the capital’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display. Sadiq Khan says using anything but official partner Ticketmaster will lead to scams and overinflated prices.
The caution comes a year after MyLondon found touts offering entry for £250 a head – £200 more than the original price. Eventgoers with ‘last-minute’ tickets risk being turned away on December 31 , City Hall warns.
There are limited numbers of legitimate tickets still available online but there will be a final release later this month. The exact date is yet to be confirmed.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “It’s been a spectacular weekend across our capital as Londoners of all ages have united to see the night sky lit up to celebrate Bonfire Night. As Londoners and visitors start to think about their plans for New Year’s Eve, we are reminding anyone wanting to enjoy our spectacular celebrations that you must buy a ticket from our authorised outlet.
“Each year disappointed people are turned away at the gates after unwittingly spending huge sums on fake tickets, so it’s important that people are aware of this threat. Our fireworks celebrations are the best in the world and there is no better way to welcome in the new year than by uniting with Londoners and visitors on the banks of the River Thames.”
City of London Police reiterated this message, encouraging people to stop and check the ticket’s source before making any payments. Amanda Wolf, chief superintendent from the National Lead Force for fraud, added: “Only purchase tickets from the official partner site, Ticketmaster, including resales.
“Avoid offers or deals of tickets on social media or online marketplaces – these are likely to be fake, especially if you’re requested to pay via bank transfer.”
Entry to the annual spectacle for Londoners remains at £20 and £35, depending on the viewing area. Tickets for people who live outside the capital will be £40 and £55, an increase of 10 per cent from last year.
Why have legitimate ticket prices gone up this year?
The price attendees pay depends on their viewing spot and if they live inside or outside the capital. City Hall has said this is to help cover the increasing costs across the events industry.
Over 100,000 people line the banks of the River Thames every New Year’s Eve to take in the world-famous display. The city’s skies will light up in colour as Big Ben chimes in 2026.
Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster now. For more information on the next drop, visit the City Hall website.
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