From Sydney to Mumbai, communities across the globe celebrated the arrival of 2025 with dazzling light displays, warm embraces, and icy plunges.
In Auckland, thousands gathered in the city center or climbed nearby volcanic peaks to witness stunning fireworks that paid tribute to Indigenous peoples. As one of the first major cities to welcome the new year, Auckland’s festivities set the tone for celebrations worldwide.
Sydney Harbor radiated with over a million spectators gathering to witness fireworks launched off the iconic Harbor Bridge. British pop sensation Robbie Williams led the crowd in lively singalongs, while ceremonies highlighted the importance of Indigenous culture.
Japan saw significant shutdowns as residents prepared for their largest holiday, cleaning temples and homes in anticipation. This preparation precedes the Year of the Snake, a symbol of renewal, which will also be celebrated during China’s upcoming Lunar New Year. However, South Korea observed a more somber transition due to a recent airline tragedy that claimed 179 lives.
In Bangkok, shopping malls competed to draw crowds with live entertainment and fireworks, while in Jakarta, a display involving 800 drones captivated onlookers. In contrast, the Middle East, Sudan, and Ukraine had subdued celebrations due to ongoing conflicts.
China and Russia exchanged new year’s greetings, emphasizing diplomatic relations despite Western tensions. Chinese leader Xi Jinping reassured Putin of their ongoing partnership, reflecting China’s continued trade ties with Russia following the latter’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
On the Arabian Sea, Mumbai’s promenades were bustling with revelers, and in Sri Lanka, people gathered at temples to engage in traditional prayer rituals. In Dubai, an extensive fireworks display at the Burj Khalifa attracted thousands, while Nairobi resonated with sporadic fireworks.
Pope Francis initiated a Holy Year in Rome, attracting millions of anticipated pilgrims. In a traditional Vespers at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope is expected to address concerns for peace, particularly in regions like Ukraine and the Middle East. For Catholics, January 1 remains a day of reverence, marking the Solemnity of Mary.
Paris recaptured its Olympic spirit with its customary countdown and fireworks along the Champs-Elysées. Visitors, including Frank and Rowena Klar from San Francisco, celebrated with optimism about the year ahead.
While a cold storm affected UK events, leading to the cancellation of Edinburgh’s New Year celebrations, Switzerland embraced the chill with daring ice plunges.
In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s premier New Year’s party unfolded at Copacabana Beach, where over 2 million gathered to enjoy an extended fireworks spectacle, musical performances, and a celebratory atmosphere.
In the U.S., Times Square hosted the iconic ball drop, accompanied by performances from popular music acts. Las Vegas offered its own display along the Strip, drawing over 300,000 attendees. Elsewhere, the Rose Parade in Pasadena and a major Nashville country music event brought together thousands to celebrate the new year.
American Samoa will close out the worldwide festivities, being among the last to ring in 2025, full 24 hours after New Zealand.
As the world embraces 2025, diverse celebrations showcase both cultural traditions and modern displays, uniting people globally in a spirit of hope and renewal despite ongoing challenges.
Source: Wsvn
