Cities across the world welcomed the new year with fireworks, cultural displays and moments of reflection as 2026 arrived at different times across global time zones.
The first celebrations began in the Pacific, with Kiribati becoming the earliest country to enter the new year, followed by New Zealand, where fireworks lit up the sky over Auckland and other major cities.
Australia soon followed, with Sydney staging a spectacular fireworks display over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, watched by millions at home and abroad.
Across Asia, countries including Japan, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos marked the transition into 2026 with a mix of fireworks, religious observances and street festivities.
In Bangkok, worshippers visited shrines and temples, while major Asian cities hosted light shows and countdown events.
In the Middle East, Dubai celebrated with its trademark fireworks around the Burj Khalifa, drawing large crowds and global attention. Meanwhile, European cities prepared for midnight with heightened security in some locations. In London, Primrose Hill was closed to the public following safety concerns, while Edinburgh readied itself for Hogmanay celebrations.
In Rome, Pope Leo XIV presided over a New Year’s Eve vespers service at St Peter’s Basilica, reflecting on social responsibility and calling for compassion toward children, the elderly and struggling families as the Catholic Church continues its holy year.
As the Americas awaited midnight, revellers gathered in major cities such as New York and Rio de Janeiro. Authorities in Rio warned of dangerous sea conditions ahead of what is expected to be one of the world’s largest New Year’s Eve gatherings at Copacabana Beach.
Beyond the festivities, the transition into 2026 was also marked by political milestones and global reflection.
In Russia and China, leaders used New Year addresses to restate national priorities, while in the United States, attention turned to the imminent swearing-in of New York City’s new mayor shortly after midnight.
From fireworks and music to prayers and quiet reflection, the arrival of 2026 was marked worldwide as a moment of celebration, hope and renewed anticipation for the year ahead.
