As 2026 began, people across the world welcomed the new year with fireworks, concerts and public gatherings. While many cities celebrated with joy, others marked the moment with tributes and moments of reflection following recent tragedies.
Brazil
Millions gathered at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro for concerts and a 12-minute fireworks show. The city was recognized by Guinness World Records as hosting the world’s largest New Year’s Eve celebration.
USA
New York’s Times Square hosted the famous ball drop as thousands braved freezing temperatures. Fireworks also lit the sky over Washington and Miami celebrated with fireworks over Biscayne Bay.
France
Paris marked 2026 with fireworks and projections on the Arc de Triomphe.
United Kingdom
London hosted a ticketed fireworks event near the London Eye.
Italy
Crowds celebrated with sparklers outside the Colosseum in Rome.
Germany
People celebrated near the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin amid snow, while fireworks lit the skies in Hamburg and Baden-Württemberg.
Spain
Barcelona welcomed 2026 with fireworks and a drone display forming “2026” in the night sky.
Russia
Crowds gathered near Red Square to celebrate the arrival of the new year.
UAE
Thousands queued for hours to watch fireworks and laser displays at Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.
Qatar
People gathered in Lusail to watch fireworks celebrating the new year.
Pakistan
Fireworks lit up the sky over Karachi as crowds welcomed 2026.
India
People celebrated in cities including Mumbai and Bengaluru with street gatherings and illuminated decorations.
New Zealand
Auckland welcomed 2026 with fireworks launched from the Sky Tower.
Australia
Sydney marked the new year with firework and tributes to victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack and a menorah projection on the Harbour Bridge.
Hong Kong
The city cancelled its traditional fireworks following a deadly apartment fire and instead held a music show and light displays.
China
Fireworks and performances took place nationwide.
South Korea
Seoul welcomed 2026 with bell tolling at Bosingak Pavilion and fireworks over Lotte Tower.
Japan
Temple bells rang nationwide, with people watching the first sunrise and eating traditional noodles for good fortune.
