As the world prepares to usher in 2026, many cities are opting for grand fireworks displays, but some notable locations have decided to cancel their celebrations. While London is gearing up for a spectacular New Year’s Eve, with large crowds expected to gather for the fireworks, Sydney, Paris, and Tokyo have called off various festivities due to safety concerns.
In the UK capital, officials anticipate significant attendance, leading to warnings for visitors to avoid key areas in Central London. Locations such as Big Ben, the London Eye, Trafalgar Square, Victoria Embankment, Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Waterloo Bridge, and Southwark Bridge are likely to experience heavy congestion. In light of this, Paul Martinelli, chair of the City Bridge Foundation, cautioned that “significant crowding on the bridges…can present a danger to all bridge users.”
While London prepares for its celebrations, cities around the globe have opted for caution. In Sydney, the smaller fireworks display at Bondi Beach has been cancelled, while Paris has scrapped a music event planned for the Champs-Élysées. Similarly, Tokyo has cancelled its countdown event outside the bustling Shibuya Station due to fears of potential stampedes.
This trend of cancelling events highlights the ongoing concerns surrounding public safety during large gatherings. Cities that have chosen to proceed are implementing measures to ensure the safety of their attendees, but the decision to cancel is a reflection of the challenges faced in maintaining safety during such high-profile celebrations.
As London prepares for its New Year’s Eve festivities, authorities are urging attendees to remain mindful of their surroundings and plan their journeys accordingly. The vibrant atmosphere that typically accompanies such events is tempered by the awareness of safety, reflecting a broader shift in how major cities approach large public gatherings.
With the clock ticking down to midnight on December 31, 2025, those in London are looking forward to the spectacular fireworks display that will illuminate the sky, while other cities take a step back to reassess their event plans. The contrast in approaches underscores the complex dynamics of hosting public celebrations in today’s world.
As the countdown to 2026 begins, updates will continue to emerge regarding event statuses around the globe.
