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From Sydney to Vladivostok and Auckland to Wellington, people worldwide welcomed 2025 with dazzling light shows, fireworks, drone displays, hugs, and even icy plunges.
The Republic of Kiribati’s Kiritimati Island was the first to ring in the New Year, followed by New Zealand’s Chatham Islands, Auckland, and Wellington.
In Auckland, thousands gathered downtown or scaled volcanic peaks for prime views of a spectacular fireworks display.
Australia followed suit, with Sydney hosting its iconic Harbour celebration.
Over a million people, including locals and tourists, cheered as fireworks illuminated the sky, accompanied by a singalong led by British pop star Robbie Williams.
As the clock advanced, Japan, South Korea, and North Korea celebrated.
South Korea’s events, however, were subdued in the wake of the Muan air crash that claimed 179 lives.
China, the Philippines, and Singapore joined in with fireworks and intricate drone shows, including an 800-drone display in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Bangkok’s shopping malls competed with live musical acts and fireworks, while much of Japan paused for traditional temple visits and house cleanings to usher in its largest annual holiday.
In a diplomatic moment, Chinese state media highlighted New Year greetings exchanged between Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, emphasizing growing ties amid tensions with the West.
In Dubai, thousands attended a fireworks show at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Paris dazzled with its Champs-Élysées fireworks extravaganza, and London marked the New Year with a Thames-side pyrotechnic display and a parade featuring 10,000 performers.
In Rome, Pope Francis’ Holy Year celebration drew attention as he prepared to address global conflicts, including wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, during vespers and Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica.
While Scotland’s Hogmanay Street Party was canceled due to storms, revelers in Switzerland embraced the chill with icy plunges.
Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro hosted its iconic Copacabana Beach party, where over two million attendees enjoyed 12 minutes of fireworks and performances by Brazilian stars like Anitta and Caetano Veloso.
In New York City, Times Square prepared for musical acts by TLC, Jonas Brothers, and others, while Las Vegas planned its fireworks along the Strip, drawing an estimated 340,000 spectators.
Pasadena’s Rose Parade attracted eager campers, and Nashville’s celebration featured country music stars, with 200,000 attendees.
Finally, American Samoa will close out the global festivities, marking 2025 a full 24 hours after New Zealand.
