As 2025 drew to a close, people around the world said goodbye to a challenging year and welcomed 2026 with hopes for peace, prosperity and renewal. Celebrations began first on the Pacific islands closest to the International Date Line, including Kiritimati (Christmas Island), Tonga and New Zealand.
Spectacular fireworks will light up Sydney
In Australia, Sydney rang in the New Year with its traditional fireworks display along the harbour. About 40,000 pyrotechnic effects stretched over 7 km (4 mi) across buildings and boats, including a waterfall effect from the Sydney Harbor Bridge.
Tradition rings in Seoul, Beijing, Hong Kong
In Seoul, thousands of people gathered at the Bosingak Bell Pavilion, where a bronze bell was struck 33 times at midnight. Rooted in Buddhist cosmology, the ceremony symbolizes the 33 heavens and is believed to ward off misfortune and welcome peace and prosperity.
In Beijing, a drum performance at Juyong Pass near the Great Wall of China marked the coming Lunar New Year. Revelers celebrated with headgear and signs reading “2026” and a horse, as February ushers in the Year of the Horse.
Unique celebrations in Europe
In Croatia, the town of Fuzine continued its unusual tradition of a noon countdown that dates back to the year 2000. Crowds celebrated with music, champagne toasts and even plunged into the icy waters of Lake Bajer with many sporting Santa hats.
A massive gathering in America
Preparations were underway for America’s iconic New Year celebrations. In New York, security barriers and stages were set up in Times Square for the annual ball drop in sub-zero temperatures.
On Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana beach, organizers have prepared a “Reveillon”, a massive music and fireworks party. Event planners have set their sights on breaking the 2024 Guinness World Record for the largest New Year’s Eve celebration.
