New Zealand, Sydney Welcome 2025 First With Fireworks Spectacle/ Newslooks/ Washington/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Auckland, New Zealand, became the first major city to welcome 2025 with vibrant fireworks and a light show. Around the globe, celebrations varied from Sydney’s iconic harbor display to Rio de Janeiro’s massive beach party, all showcasing local culture and traditions.
New Year 2025: Global Celebrations Quick Looks
- Auckland Leads: Fireworks from Sky Tower and light displays thrilled crowds.
- Sydney’s Spectacle: Over 1M people gathered for fireworks and cultural performances.
- Bangkok’s Festivities: Competing malls hosted live music and fireworks.
- Middle East Challenges: Celebrations were subdued due to conflicts in Israel and Gaza.
- Iconic New York: Times Square ball drop prepared to welcome 2025.
New Zealand , Sydney Welcomes 2025 First With Fireworks Spectacle
Deep Look: Global Cities Ring in 2025 With Stunning Celebrations
Auckland Rings in the New Year
New Zealand’s Auckland kicked off global New Year’s celebrations, dazzling thousands with fireworks launched from Sky Tower and a synchronized light display honoring Indigenous Māori tribes. Crowds gathered downtown and atop volcanic peaks for a spectacular view, celebrating amid a backdrop of local cultural recognition.
Sydney Draws Over a Million Revelers
Sydney Harbor lit up with its traditional fireworks, attended by over a million people. The display included Indigenous ceremonies to honor Australia’s First Nations people. British pop icon Robbie Williams led a singalong, adding an international flair to the festivities.
Asian Celebrations Highlight Tradition
In Japan, the upcoming Year of the Snake symbolized renewal, with residents preparing through traditional home cleanings and rituals. Bangkok’s New Year’s Eve featured vibrant celebrations at shopping hubs CentralWorld and ICONSIAM, with a highlight performance by Lisa of Blackpink.
Sobriety in South Korea
South Korea curtailed celebrations due to national mourning after a plane crash that killed 179 people. This tragic event cast a somber tone over what would have otherwise been a joyous occasion.
Middle East Celebrations Amid Conflict
In Dubai, fireworks at the Burj Khalifa drew massive crowds, while other regions, including Israel and Gaza, saw subdued festivities due to ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises.
Paris Reflects on Olympic Spirit
Paris marked the close of a momentous year with fireworks and celebrations on the Champs-Élysées, reflecting on the success of its Summer Olympics, which brought unity and global admiration.
Rio’s Legendary Beach Party
In Brazil, Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach prepared for its signature New Year’s bash, featuring 12 minutes of fireworks and live performances by Brazilian superstars like Anitta. The event was set to attract over 2 million revelers.
Iconic Celebrations in the U.S.
In New York City, preparations for the Times Square ball drop included inspections of the iconic crystal ball and musical performances by TLC and Jonas Brothers. Meanwhile, Las Vegas unveiled countdowns at its Sphere venue, complementing its annual fireworks display.
Special Global Highlights
- Rome began Pope Francis’ Holy Year celebrations, with millions expected to visit Vatican City in 2025.
- London prepared a Thames fireworks display and parade despite wintry weather.
- Pasadena, California, continued its tradition with the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl game.
Looking Ahead
From Auckland to American Samoa, New Year’s celebrations highlight both the diversity and shared joy of welcoming 2025. Each event reflects cultural pride, resilience, and global unity as people embrace the opportunities of the coming year.
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