HUNDREDS of revellers were left red-faced after turning up to a New Year’s fireworks display that never existed for the second year running.
Crowds flocked to Birmingham city centre for the bogus display, which was expected to take place at Centenary Square.
Huge crowds braved freezing temperatures as they packed into Centenary Square last night, ready to ring in 2026.
Pictures show locals standing shoulder to shoulder as they eagerly await the spectacle.
And videos on TikTok revealed packed streets of party-goers, phones held high, waiting for the sky to light up.
But the fireworks never came for a second year running.
Instead, disgruntled crowds were later seen trudging away from the square, with not a single firework in sight.
Police officers were forced to step in, telling stunned revellers the event was never happening.
People attended the event despite West Midlands Police warning that no firework display would be happening in the city centre.
And it’s the second year in a row the city has been hit by the embarrassing blunder.
Last New Year’s Eve, thousands also descended on the same spot after online adverts falsely claimed a fireworks display was planned.
Experts later found the misleading posts may have been written by AI, recycling out-of-date information from old blog articles claiming to list the “best fireworks displays” in the UK.
New Year’s fireworks have not been held in Birmingham city centre since 2017 but they are repeatedly included in roundups of the best displays in the UK.
One advert this year said the event would run between 8pm on December 31 and 12.30am.
It read: “If you’re spending New Year’s Eve in Birmingham, don’t miss the celebrations on Centenary Square which is by far the biggest NYE party in the city.
“At the event, you’ll find street food vendors, an ice rink and bars to help you celebrate New Year’s Eve 2025.’
Earlier this week, West Midlands Police addressed rumours of a firework display in Birmingham and issued a warning to those planning on heading there.
A spokesperson said: “There are no official firework displays or city-organised events happening in Birmingham city centre on New Year’s Eve.
“Every year, rumours start to spread online about big celebrations in the city. Unfortunately, these false claims often lead to confusion and disappointment.
“Last year, for example, we were made aware of posts that circulated about a spectacular show in Centenary Square.
“Many people believed it, travelled into the city centre, and were left frustrated when nothing happened.
“Families made unnecessary journeys and ended up disappointed after discovering the event wasn’t taking place. We don’t want that to happen again.”
The statement continued: “If you see posts or comments on social media suggesting there will be fireworks or large-scale events in Birmingham on New Year’s Eve, please treat them with caution – these claims are not true.
“If you’re unsure, please let us know. We’re here to help clarify and stop misinformation from spreading.
“Why does this matter? Because misinformation can create real safety issues in the city.
“When large crowds gather for an event that doesn’t exist, it puts pressure on public transport, emergency services, and can lead to congestion in the city centre.
“We’re asking you to please only share accurate information from trusted sources. Help us keep Birmingham safe and enjoyable for everyone this New Year’s Eve.
“We’ll have officers on high visibility patrols over Christmas and New Year’s to keep everyone safe.”
