The world begins welcoming 2025 with light shows, embraces and ice plunges

Different cities around the world celebrated the beginning of the New Year

In Wellington, New Zealand, from Sydney to Vladivostok and Mumbai, communities around the world ushered in 2025 with dazzling light shows, warm hugs and icy plunges.

Auckland celebrated this year as the first major city. Thousands of people gathered in the city center or on the surrounding volcanic mountains to have a beautiful view of the fireworks. In these celebrations, a light show was also held in honor of the native people.

South Pacific countries are the first countries to start the New Year. Midnight in New Zealand is 18 hours earlier than the moment the ball drops in New York's Times Square.

Early fireworks

The Sydney Harbor Bridge and its surroundings were lit up with fireworks. More than one million people from Australia and other parts of the world gathered in Sydney Harbour. At the ceremony, British star Robbie Williams invited the crowd to sing hymns.

Asia and the Year of the Snake

Japan is widely shut down in preparation for its annual major holiday, and temples and homes undergo a thorough cleaning.

The year of the snake in the Asian zodiac calendar is a symbol of rebirth, referring to the molting of the snake.

Beach parties

In Mumbai, India, thousands of people gathered on the city's beaches.
In Dubai, thousands of people turned out to watch the Burj Khalifa fireworks display, the tallest building in the world.

A holy year begins

In Rome, traditional New Year's Eve celebrations coincided with the beginning of Pope Francis' Holy Year. Held once every 25 years, this festival brings millions of pilgrims to Rome.

A cold and warm welcome to the new year

In London, firework displays were held over the River Thames. But in Switzerland and some other regions, people welcomed the New Year by diving into cold water.

Rio de Janeiro

On the beach of Copacabana in Brazil, 12 minutes of fireworks were held along with concerts of famous artists and more than 2 million people participated in this celebration.

American traditions and innovations

In New York, Times Square celebrated the New Year with its famous ball drop and performances by artists such as the Jonas Group and Rita Ora.

Las Vegas had fireworks displays on the rooftops of casinos, and there were big concerts in Nashville, Tennessee.

American Samoa is one of the last places to celebrate in 2025, 24 hours after New Zealand.

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