As the clock struck midnight on December 31, 2025, cities around the world erupted in celebration, welcoming the new year with hopes for peace and unity. From the vibrant fireworks displays in Sydney to the heartfelt wishes in Kyiv and Moscow, 2026 began with a mix of jubilance and reflection.
In London, an estimated 100,000 attendees gathered along the River Thames for the city’s renowned fireworks show. Tickets for the event sold out weeks in advance, but many spectators found elevated spots to enjoy the spectacle. Unlike last year, when over 30,000 people celebrated on Primrose Hill, the park was closed this year due to police concerns, urging the public to respect the restrictions.
Global Celebrations and Local Sentiments
In Edinburgh, tens of thousands embraced the cold for the traditional Hogmanay street party, despite the frigid temperatures driven by Arctic winds. Similar festivities unfolded in major cities across the UK, including Belfast, Cardiff, Manchester, and Newcastle, where local communities gathered to ring in the new year.
Conversely, in Kyiv and Moscow, the atmosphere was markedly subdued. As the war in Ukraine continues, many locals expressed a yearning for peace. A woman named Larisa, who traveled from Altai Krai to see Moscow during the winter holidays, shared her hope: “I wish for the war to end; I think that this is the main and most important topic for our country.” Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his annual New Year’s address, focused on the unity of the Russian people, emphasizing the importance of their resolve amidst the ongoing conflict.
In Lviv, a curfew commenced at midnight, preventing any official New Year celebrations. Many Ukrainians felt a deep sense of loss and uncertainty, though young Olesia, a nine-year-old in Kyiv, remained hopeful, stating, “I think there will be peace in the new year.”
Celebrations Across Continents
In Australia, Sydney welcomed 2026 with a breathtaking fireworks display featuring 40,000 pyrotechnic effects spanning over 7 km. This year’s show was conducted under heightened security following a tragic incident earlier, which saw the loss of 15 lives at a Jewish event. Sydney’s Lord Mayor Clover Moore acknowledged the somber context, remarking, “We hope that New Year’s Eve will provide an opportunity to come together and look with hope for a peaceful and happy 2026.” A moment of silence was observed at 23:00 local time to honor the victims.
Meanwhile, preparations were underway in New York City for the iconic Times Square ball drop. Despite subzero temperatures, organizers set up security barriers and stages to welcome the throngs expected to gather for this annual tradition.
Across the globe, in Rio de Janeiro, the famed Copacabana Beach was prepped for a massive New Year’s Eve party known as “Reveillon.” Organizers aimed to surpass their previous Guinness World Record for the largest celebration, promising music and fireworks to usher in the new year.
In Seoul, thousands gathered at the historic Bosingak bell pavilion to witness the traditional ringing of the bronze bell, symbolizing the dispelling of misfortune and the welcoming of prosperity. As the bell tolled twelve times, drones illuminated the sky in the shape of a red horse, the symbol for the upcoming year in the Chinese zodiac, representing strength and perseverance.
In Taiwan, Kaohsiung’s E-Da World dazzled spectators with a spectacular 999-second fireworks display, attracting 56,000 visitors celebrating the Year of the Horse.
As the world embraced 2026, the celebrations reflected not only joy and festivity but also a collective yearning for peace and hope in uncertain times.
