World Welcomes 2025 with Light Shows and Celebrations

Auckland, the first major city to celebrate, saw thousands either gathering in the downtown area or climbing volcanic peaks for the best view of its spectacular fireworks show. In a poignant gesture, the display included a tribute to the Indigenous people of New Zealand, a theme that resonated throughout celebrations across the South Pacific. New Zealand was the first to ring in the New Year, 18 hours ahead of the iconic Times Square ball drop in New York.

Sydney's celebrations were nothing short of breathtaking, with over a million spectators gathering around Sydney Harbor to witness fireworks light up the night sky from the iconic Sydney Harbor Bridge. Pop star Robbie Williams led a sing-along, and performances acknowledging the land's Indigenous people were a focal point of the festivities.

A Global Embrace
In Asia, preparations for the Year of the Snake were in full swing, particularly in Japan, where many businesses closed to observe one of the nation's most important holidays. The Year of the Snake, which symbolizes rebirth and renewal, was marked by an array of snake-themed products, particularly in Japan's stores. In South Korea, national mourning following a tragic airplane crash led to muted celebrations, while in Thailand, the vibrant atmosphere of Bangkok was punctuated by fireworks and musical performances, including one by Thai pop sensation Lisa from Blackpink.

Russia and China Mark the New Year
In a symbolic exchange, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin sent mutual New Year’s greetings, reflecting the deepening ties between their countries despite mounting tensions with the West. Xi reaffirmed his country’s commitment to unity with Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory.

Subdued Celebrations Amid Conflict
In the Middle East, New Year’s celebrations were overshadowed by ongoing conflicts. In Israel, the war with Hamas continued, casting a shadow over festivities. Similarly, Lebanon and Syria remained in recovery from years of conflict, and Gaza endured hardships exacerbated by military operations. In contrast, Dubai saw thousands gather to witness a fireworks display from the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building.

Rome's Holy Year Begins
In Rome, the Holy Year, a once-in-a-quarter-century event, was inaugurated with solemn prayers and masses. Pope Francis led a vespers service at St. Peter’s Basilica on New Year’s Eve, signaling the beginning of a year-long celebration expected to draw millions of pilgrims from around the world.

Solidarity in Germany and Paris
In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz delivered a message of solidarity in light of the country's challenges, from a struggling economy to a recent tragic attack on a Christmas market. Paris, which had already experienced a transformative 2024 with the Summer Olympics, rang in the New Year with its traditional countdown and fireworks over the Champs-Élysées, reclaiming a spirit of joy and unity after the city's painful past.

A Wintry Welcome in the UK
In the UK, while London hosted a massive fireworks display along the River Thames, some celebrations in Edinburgh were canceled due to a severe winter storm. Meanwhile, in Switzerland and parts of Scandinavia, revelers embraced the cold, taking daring plunges into freezing waters to mark the new year.

Celebrations in Brazil, America, and Beyond
In Brazil, Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana Beach drew over 2 million revelers for a 12-minute-long fireworks show, while in New York City, Times Square's iconic ball drop featured musical performances by TLC, the Jonas Brothers, and more. Las Vegas' Strip hosted a dazzling pyrotechnic display for the anticipated crowd of 340,000. Meanwhile, Pasadena prepared for its famed Rose Parade, and Nashville hosted one of the country's largest New Year’s Eve parties.

Finally, American Samoa, one of the last to welcome 2025, did so with its own special brand of warmth, 24 hours after New Zealand.