In brief
Nations worldwide celebrated the arrival of the New Year with vibrant traditions. From the first dawn on Kiritimati Island to grand fireworks over Sydney, each location showcased unique ways of marking this special occasion. Reflecting on joy, remembrance, and cultural practices, this article captures the global festivities, including tributes in Sydney and traditional customs in Europe and Asia.
Nations around the world are welcoming the New Year as midnight strikes across different time zones. The island of Kiritimati - an atoll in the remote Pacific nation of Kiribati - became the first place to enter 2026. One tourist there told us he marked it on a beach with no satellites, no signs of human life, complete darkness and countless crabs. New Zealand soon followed by welcoming the New Year with fireworks in Auckland.In Sydney, celebrations were tempered by sadness as the nation reflected on the Bondi Beach attack on 14 December in which 15 people were killed. At 23:00 local time, Sydney Harbour fell silent for a minute, with crowds holding lights to remember the victims of Bondi. A Jewish menorah was projected on to the pylons of the Harbour Bridge.Other parts of the world showcased their unique culture to mark the New Year. In Denmark, swimmers embraced the icy waters for a traditional splash, known as Nytaarsbad. Meanwhile, Ommen in the Netherlands celebrated with its annual carbide shooting, transforming milk cans into cannons.Japan's traditions came to life as young women dressed in traditional kimono participated in a Shinto ritual procession at Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine.Across the globe, these memorable moments reflect diverse ways people celebrate the New Year, imbued with both joy and remembrance.
