Across the globe, cities welcomed the dawn of 2025 with grand displays of fireworks, vibrant festivities, and various cultural traditions, marking the start of the new year with joy and celebration.
Sydney, Australia, kicked off the global fireworks celebrations, where over one million attendees gathered at the iconic Sydney Harbour. The city continued its long-standing tradition of lighting up the night sky with spectacular fireworks launched from both the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. The Britpop sensation, Robbie Williams, led the crowd in song at this massive celebration, which also showcased performances honoring the Indigenous heritage of Australia. This year, Sydney celebrated with nine tons of pyrotechnics lighting the night sky at midnight, bringing forth the New Year with breathtaking visuals.
Auckland was the first major city to say goodbye to 2024, with thousands flocking to the city center and the volcanic peaks surrounding it for prime viewing of the fireworks. The light show included tributes to the local Māori tribes. This marked the first city to welcome 2025, followed closely by Sydney, as time zones shifted across the globe.
Tokyo, Japan, observed traditional rituals such as the ringing of the Sensoji temple bell, complementing its vibrant celebrations with fireworks marking the New Year. Meanwhile, expansive gatherings were seen across major cities like Jakarta, Indonesia, where hundreds congregated to enjoy fireworks and festive events.
Asian nations celebrated not just with fireworks but also with cultural events. For example, Thailand welcomed the New Year with prayer ceremonies held to promote good fortune, and large gatherings across its capital showcased impressive firework displays. Beijing, China, also had celebrations to signify the arrival of the new year, accompanied by fireworks over the city.
Notably, fireworks from Taipei 101 lit up the night sky as Taiwan celebrated the New Year. The elaborate display, highlighting Taiwan’s resilient spirit, was part of their unique local festivities.
Back to Europe, the Netherlands broke records with firework spending, totaling 118 million euros, as people embraced the New Year spirit. Despite adverse weather conditions which forced many displays to cancel, the iconic Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam went forward as planned with its significant firework showcase. Elsewhere, the capital Amsterdam, which usually hosts vibrant displays, canceled due to high winds posing dangers for spectators.
Meanwhile, Russia’s capital, Moscow, entertained guests at the Red Square with thrilling firework shows. Despite the commemoration, abroad celebrations were restrained by conflict, particularly evident in areas affected by conflict and unrest.
Dubai was another center for grandeur, with the Burj Khalifa hosting extravagant fireworks, showcasing the city’s ambition to deliver one of the world's most impressive New Year's events. The event continues to solidify its status as one of the premier locations for celebrating the New Year.
Across the Atlantic, New York City prepared for its historic Times Square ball drop, featuring performances from big music acts, such as TLC and the Jonas Brothers, along with millions of participants joining the countdown to welcome the new year. The event remains one of the most recognizable New Year's celebrations worldwide.
Celebrations were also felt on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, where millions anticipated the fireworks at Copacabana and the related concerts featuring famed Brazilian artists.
While many celebrated, not all events were free of sadness. Nations like Israel, Ukraine, and Sudan faced challenges, with festivities overshadowed by conflict and hardship. The significance of hope marked the conversations around the world, as many looked forward to what the new year might bring.
Overall, New Year’s Eve 2024 was marked by spectacular celebrations around the globe, signifying hope, culture, and collective joy, showcasing the diversity of traditions and communal events spanning from Sydney to New York City.