Festivities Amidst Adverse Weather and a Tribute to the Late Queen
As the UK stepped into 2023, celebrations erupted nationwide despite challenging weather conditions. Revelers braved rain and warnings of ice and snow issued by the Met Office for various regions, including England’s South West and the Scottish Highlands, to partake in New Year’s Eve festivities.
In London, over 100,000 gathered along the Thames Embankment to witness a spectacular fireworks display. Big Ben marked the countdown as the sold-out event, which featured 12,000 fireworks, aimed to convey messages of “love and unity.” The show celebrated significant moments from the past year, including the Lionesses’ historic Euro win at Wembley and the 50th anniversary of London’s Pride, with a heartfelt message from Peter Tatchell of the Gay Liberation Front.
Additionally, the display included tributes to the late Queen, featuring a recorded message from her alongside words from Dame Judi Dench. The festivities also honored King Charles, who emphasized the importance of environmental stewardship for the planet’s future.
