SYDNEY/LONDON: The world has officially begun welcoming the year 2026, with the first celebrations erupting in the Pacific. The island nation of Kiribati was the first to ring in the New Year at approximately 3:30 PM IST, setting off a wave of global festivities that will span the next 24 hours.
Spectacular Start in New Zealand New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland, followed shortly after, ushering in 2026 with a dazzling pyrotechnic display at the iconic Sky Tower. Despite some rain and wind that forced the cancellation of smaller regional events in the North Island due to weather concerns, thousands gathered in Auckland’s Central Business District to witness the five-minute show featuring over 3,500 fireworks launched from the 240-meter structure.
Australia Gears Up for Midnight In Australia, the atmosphere in Sydney is electric as the city prepares for its world-renowned Harbour Bridge display. A “Calling Country” fireworks show, celebrating Indigenous culture, took place at 9:00 PM local time (3:30 PM IST) for families and early revelers. The main event, the midnight fireworks at the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, is scheduled for 6:30 PM IST and is expected to be watched by millions worldwide.
Viking Traditions and Economic Milestones In Europe, the historic town of Lerwick in Scotland is seeing massive crowds for the “Up Helly Aa” celebrations, a traditional Viking fire festival that serves as a unique cultural centerpiece for the season. Meanwhile, the UK financial sector ended 2025 on a high note; the London Stock Exchange (FTSE 100) closed the year with its strongest annual performance since 2009, gaining over 21% as investors look toward 2026 with renewed optimism.
Global Countdown Schedule (IST):
- Japan & South Korea: 8:30 PM (Dec 31)
- China & Hong Kong: 9:30 PM (Dec 31)
- India: 12:00 AM (Jan 1)
- United Kingdom: 5:30 AM (Jan 1)
- USA (New York): 10:30 AM (Jan 1)
As the midnight hour moves westward, cities from Dubai to New York are finalizing preparations for their own historic welcomes to the year 2026.
