As the clock struck midnight across time zones, people around the world bid farewell to a sometimes difficult 2025 and welcomed the new year with fireworks, traditional rituals and festive gatherings.
The New Year arrived first in the Pacific islands near the International Date Line, including Kiritimati (Christmas Island), Tonga and New Zealand, before celebrations spread westward across Asia, Europe and the Americas.
In Australia, Sydney ushered in 2026 with its iconic fireworks display over the harbour. Around 40,000 pyrotechnic effects lit up a 7-kilometre stretch, including a dramatic waterfall effect from the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The event took place under heightened security following a deadly attack at a Jewish event in the city earlier this month. Organisers observed a minute’s silence at 11 p.m., illuminating the bridge in white and projecting a menorah in remembrance of the victims.
Sydney’s Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the event was intended to bring people together and inspire hope for a peaceful and happier year ahead.
In South Korea, thousands gathered at Seoul’s historic Bosingak pavilion, where a large bronze bell was rung 33 times at midnight. The centuries-old tradition, rooted in Buddhist symbolism, is believed to drive away bad fortune and welcome peace and prosperity.
In China, revellers celebrated near the Great Wall at Juyong Pass, where drum performances marked the countdown. Many waved signs reading “2026” alongside symbols of the horse, ahead of the Year of the Horse, which begins with the Lunar New Year in February.
Meanwhile, celebrations in parts of Europe began earlier in the day. In Croatia, the town of Fužine once again marked the New Year at noon, a tradition that started in 2000. Residents and visitors danced, toasted with champagne and, in a show of bravery, plunged into the icy waters of Lake Bajer wearing festive outfits.
In the United States, preparations were underway for traditional midnight celebrations. In freezing temperatures, security barriers and stages were set up in New York’s Times Square, where thousands were expected to gather for the annual ball drop.
From fireworks to icy swims, the global celebrations reflected a shared sense of hope as the world stepped into 2026.–Reuters
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