The world ushered in 2026 with vibrant celebrations as cities throughout completely different time zones welcomed the New Yr in grand type.
Fireworks lit up skylines, whereas countdowns, music and cultural shows marked the transition into the brand new 12 months.
From packed public squares to intimate neighborhood gatherings, thousands and thousands joined within the festivities, capturing moments of pleasure, reflection and renewed hope.
Main landmarks had been illuminated as international locations showcased their distinctive traditions and celebrations.
As 2026 begins, the worldwide celebrations mirror a shared sense of optimism and anticipation for the 12 months forward, with many expressing hopes for peace, progress and prosperity worldwide.
Listed here are chosen pictures because the world welcomed 2026:
Folks watch fireworks mild up the sky throughout New Yr celebrations in Lusail early on January 1, 2026. (Picture by MAHMUD HAMS / AFP)
Fireworks explode subsequent to the traditional Parthenon temple atop the Acropolis throughout New Yr celebrations in Athens, early on January 1, 2026. (Picture by Angelos TZORTZINIS / AFP)
A reveller takes an image of fireworks throughout the New Yr celebrations in Karachi on January 1, 2026. (Picture by Rizwan TABASSUM / AFP)
Onlookers stand beside mild ornaments on New Yr’s Eve at Bakırköy Sq. in Istanbul on December 31, 2025. (Picture by Yasin AKGUL / AFP)
Revellers await the midnight countdown throughout Hong Kong’s New Yr celebrations in Central, Hong Kong, on December 31, 2025. (Picture by Might JAMES / AFP)
Revellers have a good time the New Yr throughout Hong Kong’s countdown celebrations in Central, Hong Kong, on December 31, 2025. (Picture by Might JAMES / AFP)
Revellers pose for {a photograph} throughout the New Yr’s countdown celebrations in Central, Hong Kong, on December 31, 2025. (Picture by Might JAMES / AFP)
Revellers maintain up their telephones as they seize Hong Kong’s New Yr’s countdown celebrations in Central, Hong Kong, on December 31, 2025. (Picture by Might JAMES / AFP)
Chief Govt of Hong Kong John Lee (R) greets the gang as he arrives on the New Yr’s countdown celebrations in Central, Hong Kong, on December 31, 2025. (Picture by Might JAMES / AFP)
Revellers watch a fireworks and lightweight present for kids on Museumplein as a part of New Yr’s Eve celebrations in Amsterdam on December 31, 2025. (Picture by Remko de Waal / ANP / AFP) / NETHERLANDS OUT
A person launches fireworks throughout New Yr celebrations in Baghdad, early on January 1, 2026. (Picture by AHMAD AL-RUBAYE / AFP)
Terfa Ukende is a seasoned financial writer with over seven years of experience covering topics on finance, investment, and economic development. He began his writing career with NewsWay before joining Watch Nigeria, where he continues to educate readers on wealth building, market trends, and smart money management.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics and Computer Science, which strengthens his analytical approach to financial reporting and investment insights.
