The world welcomed 2025 with vibrant celebrations, lighting up the night sky with dazzling fireworks as each time zone marked the arrival of the new year one by one. Kiribati, a small island nation in the Pacific, was the first to ring in 2025, serving as the starting point for the global festivities. Hawái will be among the last to bid farewell to 2024, but celebrations have already taken place across Oceania, Asia, and Europe.
From the iconic Bondi Beach to the historic streets of Paris, the New Year’s Eve spirit was palpable. Major cities across the globe embraced the occasion with elaborate firework displays. Sydney once again showcased its renowned fireworks over the Sydney Harbour, captivating thousands of onlookers. The ceremony featured performances, including one by the celebrated British singer Robbie Williams, and homage to the indigenous peoples of Australia.
Meanwhile, cities like Berlin, London, and Paris held their annual spectacular events. Berlin's Brandenburg Gate was illuminated, and London’s Big Ben shared the spotlight with its surroundings, as firework displays lit up the River Thames. Paris culminated 2024 with its traditional countdown and fireworks show at the Champs-Élysées, where hundreds of thousands gathered to celebrate.
Across the continent, former president Emmanuel Macron of France sent out warm wishes for 2025, stating, "For 2025, I wish us to be united, determined, and brotherly." Notably, Romania and Bulgaria celebrated their official inclusion in the Schengen Area as the new year began, signifying increased mobility and connection within Europe.
Not all celebrations were without tension. While revelers enjoyed the festivities, protests took place as well. Thousands of students marched through Belgrade, Serbia, demanding accountability from authorities after the tragic roof collapse of a railway station killed 15 people last November. Activists and citizens emphasized the urgent need for improved public safety measures, even on New Year’s Eve. These protests served as poignant reminders of the challenges faced by many as they moved forward.
Organizations and individuals around the globe utilized the New Year as an opportunity to reflect on the past and envision the future. The Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, highlighted communal strength and progress made throughout 2024, encouraging unity and optimism for Canadians. He stated, “We have learned to stay united, to help each other through good and bad times.”
Further east, leaders such as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky prepared for continued challenges, expressing resolve to fight for peace and negotiations to end the prolonged conflict with Russia.
Beneath the celebratory atmosphere, many held heartfelt resolutions for improvement in their personal lives. Amid festivities, health professionals weighed in on the significance—and often unattainable nature—of New Year’s resolutions, sharing tips on maintaining mental and physical well-being.
Moving to the Americas, cities like Edmonton and Calgary participated enthusiastically with special events. Edmonton hosted dual fireworks programs at its city hall and Churchill Square—one at 8 PM, followed by midnight fireworks. Families flocked to local parks to enjoy various activities and delicious food from street vendors.
Calgary planned vibrant celebrations at Prince’s Island Park, which commenced at 8 PM with festivities leading to the midnight countdown. Many Canadians embraced community spirit, gathering to herald the new year together.
While the festivities differed across regions, the essence was universal: celebration, hope, and renewal. Countries across Asia followed suit as the clock struck midnight. Thailand celebrated with fireworks and festivities, much akin to its neighbours Myanmar, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Even as time zones ticked on, melting hour by hour as the world danced its way to 2025, it was evident the celebrations were marked by both jubilation and solemn reflection. From the tranquility of Kiribati to the enthusiastic crowds of Paris and beyond, 2025 was ushered in with diverse expressions of culture, resilience, and shared humanity.
Despite the mixed emotions brought about by global issues, the New Year stood as a unified symbol of hope, as individuals and nations together greeted the promise of what 2025 could offer.