As 2025 drew to a close, people worldwide bid farewell to a challenging year and welcomed 2026 with hopes for peace, prosperity, and renewal. Celebrations began first in the Pacific islands closest to the International Date Line, including Kiritimati (Christmas Island), Tonga, and New Zealand.
Spectacular fireworks light up Sydney
In Australia, Sydney rings in the new year with its traditional fireworks display along the harbour. Some 40,000 pyrotechnic effects stretched over 7 km (4 miles) across buildings and barges, including a waterfall effect from the Sydney Harbor Bridge.
Traditions ring in Seoul, Beijing, Hong Kong
In Seoul, thousands gathered at the Bosingak bell pavilion, where a bronze bell was struck 33 times at midnight. The ceremony, rooted in Buddhist cosmology, symbolizes the 33 heavens and is believed to dispel misfortune and welcome peace and prosperity.
In Beijing, a drum performance at Juyong Pass near the Great Wall of China marked the upcoming Lunar New Year. Revelers celebrated with headgear and boards displaying “2026” and a horse, as February will usher in the Year of the Horse.
Unique celebrations in Europe
In Croatia, the town of Fuzine continued its unusual tradition of holding a noon countdown, dating back to 2000. Crowds celebrated with music, champagne toasts, and even a plunge into the icy waters of Lake Bajer, with many sporting Santa hats.
Massive gatherings in the Americas
Preparations were underway for iconic New Year celebrations in the Americas. In New York City, security barriers and stages were set up in Times Square for the annual ball drop amid subzero temperatures.
On Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, organizers prepared for “Reveillon,” a massive music and fireworks party. Event planners aimed to surpass the 2024 Guinness World Record for the largest New Year’s Eve celebration.
