Thousands flocked to Birmingham’s city centre on New Year’s Eve, lured by false social media rumours of a grand fireworks display at Centenary Square.

Despite repeated warnings from police and the city council that no such event was planned, a large crowd gathered to ring in 2025. As midnight struck, cheers filled the air, but the promised pyrotechnics failed to materialize, leaving many disappointed.

On New Year’s Eve, hundreds gathered in Birmingham’s Centenary Square, clutching mobile phones and eagerly waiting to capture a fireworks display. Misled by false social media posts, the crowd was left disappointed when the anticipated bang and pyrotechnics never materialized.

ITV reported the scene as “a countdown to nothing,” with revellers realizing too late they had been misled by fake or AI-generated posts. The misinformation had convinced many to travel unnecessarily into the city for what turned out to be an empty promise.

Authorities issued a statement earlier in the evening, urging people to stay home:

“We’re aware of speculation about a New Year’s Eve fireworks display in Birmingham’s Centenary Square. This is not the case. Please avoid traveling into the city to prevent disappointment.”

For those who braved the cold in hopes of a dazzling display, the new year began with a stark reminder to verify information before making plans.