First Celebrations in the Pacific and Asia
The Pacific nation of Kiribati was the first to ring in 2026 at 5 a.m. ET, followed by New Zealand's Chatham Islands at 5:15 a.m. ET. Auckland's skyline burst with fireworks as crowds cheered, while Sydney, Australia, hosted a million revelers for a 12-minute fireworks extravaganza over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House at 8 a.m. ET, led by pop star Robbie Williams.[1][2]
Asia continued the momentum: Tokyo illuminated 'Happy New Year' on buildings, Hong Kong launched an epic fireworks display at 11 a.m. ET, and Beijing's partygoers waved light-up sticks. In Seoul, gatherings honored victims of a recent plane crash, blending joy with remembrance at midnight local time.[2]
Further east, Manila's buildings rivaled the fireworks' brightness, Bangkok crowds filled IconSiam mall at noon ET, and Jakarta featured festive headbands. Karachi, Pakistan, dazzled with a 40-minute fireworks show.[2]
Middle East and Europe Light Up the Night
Dubai's Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, glowed spectacularly at 3 p.m. ET, anchoring massive fireworks displays. Moscow streets filled with revelers at 4 p.m. ET, while Damascus hosted DJ parties and Baghdad lit up palm trees with fireworks. Cairo and Athens followed, the latter combining fireworks and a stunning drone show.[2]
Europe's capitals shone brightly: Paris centered celebrations around the glowing Arc de Triomphe at 6 p.m. ET, Berlin's Brandenburg Gate exploded in fireworks, and Amsterdam's Museumplein featured electronic light shows. Brussels' Atomium and Madrid's Puerta del Sol drew thousands for midnight traditions.[2]
London capped European festivities at 7 p.m. ET with a radiant fireworks display over the Thames, the London Eye and Big Ben providing a iconic backdrop amid cheering crowds. Warsaw added to the continental fanfare with its own fireworks spectacle.[1][2]
Americas Close the Global Party
Africa contributed with Nairobi's fireworks over the UAP Old Mutual Tower and other vibrant displays. As the night progressed westward, New York City's Times Square hosted one million despite thunderstorms, culminating in the famous ball drop at midnight ET to usher in 2026.[2]
Alaska and Hawaii were among the last to celebrate, ensuring every corner of the globe marked the occasion. These 2025 events underscored New Year's Eve's role in fostering global connection, resilience, and hope for the year ahead.[2]