As the world ushered in 2026, cities around the globe celebrated with vibrant festivities, fireworks, and a collective yearning for peace. From the iconic fireworks over the River Thames in London to the traditional street parties in Edinburgh, millions gathered to mark the beginning of a new year filled with hope and resilience.
In London, approximately 100,000 people attended the highly anticipated fireworks display, which lit up the night sky. Although tickets were sold out weeks in advance, many found vantage points across the city to witness the spectacle. Last year, over 30,000 people celebrated on Primrose Hill, but this year, the park was closed due to safety concerns, with the Metropolitan Police urging the public to avoid attempting to enter.
In Scotland, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay street party drew tens of thousands of revelers, despite plunging temperatures caused by Arctic air and strong winds. The atmosphere remained festive, as participants embraced the chilly weather to celebrate the arrival of the new year.
Contrasting Scenes in Eastern Europe
While many cities celebrated, the mood was markedly different in Kyiv and Moscow, where the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia cast a shadow over the festivities. In Kyiv, a curfew began at midnight, preventing public celebrations as citizens expressed their hopes for peace. A woman in central Moscow, who identified herself as Larisa, shared her wish for an end to the war, stating, “I wish for the war to end; I think that this is the main and most important topic for our country.”
Conversely, Russian President Vladimir Putin used his annual New Year’s address to bolster national morale, emphasizing the unity of the Russian people. “Millions of people across Russia — I assure you — are with you on this New Year’s Eve,” he declared, as he rallied support for the ongoing military efforts in Ukraine.
In Kyiv, 9-year-old Olesia symbolized the spirit of hope amidst adversity, stating, “I think there will be peace in the new year.” As people gathered to enjoy street performances and holiday decorations, her optimism resonated with many who long for an end to hostilities.
Celebrations Across the Globe
In stark contrast, Sydney celebrated the new year with a spectacular fireworks display featuring 40,000 pyrotechnic effects spanning over 7 kilometers along the harbour. This year’s event took place under heightened security following a tragic shooting that claimed 15 lives at a Jewish event in December. Sydney’s Lord Mayor, Clover Moore, led a moment of silence at 23:00 local time, advocating for a hopeful start to 2026.
Preparations were underway in New York for the iconic Times Square ball drop, with organizers erecting security barriers and stages in anticipation of large crowds braving subzero temperatures. Meanwhile, on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, festivities for the traditional “Reveillon” party were being prepared, with organizers aiming to surpass their own Guinness World Record for the largest New Year’s Eve celebration.
In Seoul, thousands gathered at the Bosingak bell pavilion to witness the ceremonial striking of a bronze bell, which marks the start of the new year. This tradition, believed to dispel misfortune, resonated deeply with attendees as they welcomed the promise of peace and prosperity.
As 2026 begins, the celebrations around the world highlight a shared desire for unity and hope amidst ongoing challenges. From Moscow to Sydney, the spirit of resilience shines brightly, affirming the commitment to peace as a guiding principle for the year ahead.
