As fireworks erupted into the sky above the Las Vegas Strip to usher in 2026 revelers shouted “Happy New Year” while exchanging hugs and kisses. For a few minutes

Sydney, considered the New Year's capital of the world, held a colorful celebration that included a moment of silence for the victims of the Bondi Beach attack.

From Sydney to Paris to New York City, crowds have rung in the new year with exuberant celebrations filled with thunderous fireworks.

HONG KONG (AP) — Fireworks are typically a celebratory centerpiece of Hong Kong’s New Year celebrations. Not this year. The territory greeted 2026 without spectacular and colorful explosions in the sky over its iconic Victoria Harbor after a massive fire in November that killed at least 161 people.

See global New Year's Eve celebrations for 2026 from around the world, including eye-popping fireworks displays from Hong Kong, Dubai, Paris and other major world cities.

Crowds around the world have gathered to welcome the new year. New Zealand and Australia were among the first places to bring in 2026, with bright fireworks displays with iconic backdrops. South Korea brought in the New Year with a traditional bell toll, while Dubai and Paris lit up the sky with dazzling displays.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue said the first fire happened in Valrico, the second in the Carrollwood area, and two more followed in Riverview.

Jan 1 (Reuters) - 10...nine...eight... As Wednesday turned to Thursday, people around the world said goodbye to a sometimes challenging 2025 and expressed hopes for the New Year to come. Midnight arrived first on the islands closest to the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean,