New Year’s 2026: Celebrations, Fireworks and Rituals Around the World

People across the globe marked the arrival of 2026 with fireworks, traditional rituals, street parties and quiet commemorations. Major displays lit up city skylines — from confetti and crowds in Times Square to fireworks over Copacabana Beach, the Champs-Élysées, the Giza Pyramids, the London Eye, Marina Bay and Taipei 101.

Other vivid scenes included a drone horse over Busan, a laser show in Munich, a balloon drop in Beijing, crowds releasing balloons in Ahmedabad and fireworks from the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Traditional observances and local customs featured as well: Balinese dancers welcoming the new sun, “broom men” processions in Switzerland to drive away evil spirits and people plunging into a cold Croatian lake.

Public figures and gatherings drew attention too — Pope Leo XIV at St. Peter’s Square, President Trump celebrating at Mar‑a‑Lago and scientists and journalists aboard a South Korean ship heading for Antarctica. New Zealand and Australia marked the turn of the year early in the Pacific, with Auckland’s Sky Tower countdown and Australians observing a moment of silence for victims of the Bondi Beach shooting.

The festivities came amid a year of political and military upheaval: global conflicts in Ukraine and Sudan, continuing violence in Gaza despite a cease‑fire, renewed tensions in Asia, U.S.

Key Topics

Business, World, New Year, Celebrations, Photos, Fireworks, 2026