As 2025 draws to a close on Tuesday, countries around the world are preparing to welcome 2026 with large-scale celebrations, fireworks, and landmark events. From the Pacific region to the Americas, major cities are set to mark the transition into the New Year, with millions of people expected to watch both in person and through global broadcasts.
The first major New Year celebration will take place in Auckland, New Zealand, where the arrival of 2026 will be announced hours ahead of the rest of the world. Authorities have planned a spectacular display of lights and fireworks, with the iconic Sky Tower illuminated to signal the beginning of the New Year. Crowds are expected to gather across the city, while viewers worldwide tune in to watch the earliest countdown.
Following Auckland, global attention will shift to Australia. In Sydney, preparations are complete for a vibrant ceremony at Sydney Harbour, which consistently ranks among the world’s most watched New Year events. Organisers expect a dazzling fireworks display to light up the harbour skyline, attracting millions of spectators along the waterfront and across international television screens.
Europe and Middle East prepare landmark displays
As the New Year progresses westward, celebrations will unfold across Europe. In the United Kingdom, London is ready to host its annual fireworks along the River Thames. Fireworks have already been positioned near Big Ben, while the London Eye is set to erupt with fountains of light during the countdown to midnight. Officials anticipate large crowds despite tight security arrangements.
Meanwhile, the Middle East will stage its own grand welcome for 2026. In Dubai, organisers plan an elaborate fireworks and light show at the Burj Khalifa. As the world’s tallest building, the landmark is expected to dominate global broadcasts, with choreographed lighting and colour displays marking the New Year.
Across Asia, celebrations will also take place in cities such as Qatar, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Residents and visitors in these destinations are preparing to gather at public venues for light displays, fireworks, and cultural events to mark the transition into the New Year.
Final countdown reaches the Americas
The last major New Year’s Eve celebration will occur in New York City. Thousands of people are expected to gather in Times Square for the traditional ball drop, where a giant illuminated glass ball will descend at midnight to officially welcome 2026. Despite cold winter conditions, the event is expected to draw massive crowds and global viewership.
As celebrations unfold across time zones, the coordinated festivities highlight a shared global moment, uniting cities and cultures in welcoming the New Year.
