The world ushered in 2026 with fireworks, music and moments of reflection as the New Year arrived across time zones, from the South Pacific to Europe.
Celebrations ranged from spectacular displays to subdued gatherings shaped by tragedy, tradition and solidarity.
New Zealand – First to Welcome 2026
New Zealand was among the first countries to ring in 2026.
In Auckland, fireworks lit up the skyline as crowds gathered to mark the New Year, nearly 18 hours before celebrations began in New York’s Times Square.
The display set the tone for a day-long global transition into the new year.
Australia – Fireworks in Sydney
Australia followed shortly after. Sydney welcomed 2026 with its iconic fireworks over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
The celebrations carried added symbolism, coming weeks after the country’s deadliest mass shooting in decades.
Heavy police presence secured the event. A minute’s silence honoured the victims of Bondi Beach shooting.
Japan – Temple Bells Rang
In Japan, temple bells rang across the country as midnight struck.
Worshippers gathered at Buddhist temples, marking the New Year with rituals rooted in centuries-old tradition rather than fireworks.
South Korea – Lantern-lit Temples
In South Korea, a bell tolled at Seoul’s Bosingak Pavilion as crowds observed the moment quietly.
Lantern-lit temples drew visitors reflecting on hopes for the year ahead.
China – Celebrations and Tradition
In China, celebrations mixed tradition with spectacle.
Drummers welcomed the New Year while computer-generated images were projected near the Great Wall at Juyongguan, marking the arrival of 2026 across much of East Asia.
Taiwan – Fireworks at Taipei 101
Taipei marked the New Year with a dramatic fireworks display launched from the Taipei 101 tower.
Thousands gathered outside the city government complex, cheering as the skyline lit up shortly after midnight.
Southeast Asia – Midnight Across the Region
The New Year arrived next in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
Bangkok hosted celebrations as midnight struck, while cities across the region held countdown events, blending fireworks, music and local traditions.
Indonesia and Hong Kong – Subdued Celebrations
In Indonesia, festivities were scaled back in solidarity with communities affected by deadly floods and landslides in Sumatra.
Bali replaced fireworks with cultural performances.
Hong Kong marked 2026 without its usual fireworks over Victoria Harbour, following a deadly apartment fire weeks earlier.
Landmark buildings instead displayed a coordinated light countdown.
Pakistan – Celebrations Across Major Cities
Pakistan welcomed 2026 with fireworks and festivities in major cities including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi and Peshawar.
Families and young people gathered in public spaces, while private events and rooftop fireworks marked the occasion nationwide.
Despite a subdued public tone in some areas, the New Year was welcomed with optimism and prayer across the country.
South Asia – Colourful Moments
In India, New Year’s Eve celebrations unfolded in cities such as Amritsar, where revellers marked the transition into 2026 with music, lights and street gatherings.
Europe and Beyond – The Countdown Continues
As midnight moved westward, cities across Europe, Africa and the Americas prepared for their turn.
From landmark fireworks to quiet vigils, the world continued its staggered farewell to 2025 and welcome to 2026.
Pope Leo XIV presided over a New Year’s Eve vespers service in St Peter’s Basilica this evening in Italy, giving thanks for what the Roman Catholic church has declared a holy year.
Security in New York City
Police in New York City will have additional anti-terrorism measures at the Times Square ball drop, with “mobile screening teams.” It is not in response to a specific threat, according to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
After the ball drops, it will rise again, sparkling in red, white and blue, to mark the country’s upcoming 250th birthday.
Zohran Mamdani will take office as mayor at the start of 2026. Two swearing-in ceremonies are planned, starting with a private ceremonial event around midnight in an old subway station.
