Countries around the world are welcoming 2026 with millions of people already celebrating the new year.
In New Zealand’s biggest city, Auckland, fireworks went off as the clock struck midnight at 11am GMT.
Thousands of people watched the traditional fireworks spectacle in Sydney, Australia, as they welcomed the new year on the stroke of 1pm GMT.
In London, where tens of thousands will flock to the banks of the Thames to watch the mayor's annual fireworks display this evening, the temperature will be just above freezing when Big Ben strikes midnight.
But there is anger among residents in north London after officials decided to fence off Primrose Hill, preventing thousands of people from watching the fireworks from the beauty spot.
Follow the latest updates below...
Happy New Year!
00:10 , Megan HoweBig Ben’s iconic bongs have marked the start of 2026 in the UK!
An incredible firework and light strobes display has now begun.
Less than 10 minutes to go
Wednesday 31 December 2025 23:55 , Megan HoweThere’s less than 10 minutes left of 2025! Crowds have gathered in London to see in the New Year.
Germany welcomes in the New Year
Wednesday 31 December 2025 23:15 , Megan HoweGermany is the latest country to see in the New Year.
It follows several other countries including Norway, Switzerland, Austria, France, Italy, Poland, most of Spain, Sweden, Denmark, Gibraltar, Vatican City State and Monaco.
They are joined by the African nations including Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Central African Republic, Cameroon, Morocco and Angola.
'Things will get better' in 2026, promises Starmer
Wednesday 31 December 2025 22:43 , Megan HoweSir Keir Starmer promised millions of Britons that “things will get better” in 2026 as he battles to stay Prime Minister with Labour facing a May elections drubbing.
The premier pledged that there would be a “sense of hope” restored to the UK after years of cost-of-living crisis and slow economic growth.
“Things have been tough in Britain for a while,” he said in his New Year’s message.
“For many, life is still harder than it should be.
“In 2026, the choices we’ve made will mean more people will begin to feel positive change in your bills, your communities and your health service.
“But even more people will feel once again a sense of hope, a belief that things can and will get better.”
'Things will get better' in 2026, pledges Starmer as he fights to stay Prime Minister
Thousands gather in Edinburgh for the Hogmanay celebrations
Wednesday 31 December 2025 22:06 , Megan HoweThousands of people have begun gathering in central Edinburgh to see in the new year at the city's famous Hogmanay celebrations.
Revellers at the Hogmanay Street Party on Prince's Street are being treated to entertainments including a pipe band, drummers, a DJ set by Belgian duo 2manydjs, and a silent disco.
There is also an hourly "teaser" firework display above Edinburgh Castle in the build-up to the main event, with initial burst going off at 9pm to the delight of the audience.
Meanwhile the Concert in the Gardens is getting under way in Princes Street Gardens West, which is being headlined by the band Wet Leg.
The organisers said more than 40,000 tickets have been sold for the event, which is seeing a return following last year's cancellation due to the weather.
Three people arrested for selling fraudulent tickets to London's fireworks display
Wednesday 31 December 2025 22:00 , Megan HoweMet Police has arrested three people near Trafalgar Square for selling fraudulent tickets to tonight’s display in central London.
The force has issued a reminder that the display is completely sold out.
A dispersal order has also been put in place to prevent anti social behaviour.
Met Police put dispersal order in place for central London
Wednesday 31 December 2025 21:57 , Megan HoweAs part of the force’s policing operation for this evening, a dispersal order has been put in place for central London.
A spokesperson for Met Police said: “A dispersal order has been put in place in the area of central London shown on the map below to deal with anti-social behaviour.
“It gives officers the power to order people to leave the area. Those who refuse to do so are liable to arrest.”
A dispersal order has been put in place in the area of central London shown on the map below to deal with anti-social behaviour.
— Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) December 31, 2025
It gives officers the power to order people to leave the area. Those who refuse to do so are liable to arrest. pic.twitter.com/ysv50fTgBM
In Pictures: Revellers gearing up for the New Year with 3 hours to go
Wednesday 31 December 2025 21:34 , Megan Howe
Russia enters 2026
Wednesday 31 December 2025 21:24 , Megan HoweSeveral countries have now entered 2026, including the Russian capital, Moscow.
Although Moscow Red Square’s fireworks display was cancelled and the square was closed to visitors until 8am on January 1 because of enhanced security.
Dubai welcomes 2026 with spectacular display
Wednesday 31 December 2025 20:39 , Megan HoweIn Dubai, UAE, crowds have witnesses quite the show with fireworks from the world's tallest building followed by a performance with light displays, music and water jets.
The UAE has officially welcomed in the New Year. 🇦🇪
— Maurice (@maurice_lippy) December 31, 2025
Fireworks ERUPT from Burj Khalifa as Dubai marks the New Year with a BANGpic.twitter.com/iyucVTdqaz
What is the forecast for tonight?
Wednesday 31 December 2025 20:22 , Megan HoweForecasters have issued yellow warnings for snow and ice across England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, in effect from midnight until noon on 2 January.
Colder Arctic air is set to sweep across the UK from New Year’s Day, bringing a risk of heavy snowfall, particularly in northern Scotland.
In London, the weather is expected to remain dry but cold, with some freezing fog patches forming later into the evening.
Temperatures are expected to drop to around -3C.
A new year is just around the corner
— Met Office (@metoffice) December 31, 2025
Here's everything you need to know about the weather for the 1st day of 2026 ☔☁️🌬️🌡️ pic.twitter.com/tsOH7dzeGQ
Afghanistan welcomes 2026
Wednesday 31 December 2025 19:43 , Megan HoweAfghanistan is the latest country to welcome the New Year.
The United Arab Emirates, Armenia and Azerbaijan in half an hour's time.
Sir David Beckham feeling 'very lucky' after momentous 2025
Wednesday 31 December 2025 18:39 , Megan HoweSir David Beckham has said he feels "very lucky" as he reflects on 2025, which he said he will "forever remember" as he welcomes in the new year.
The former footballer posted a selection of photos on social media reminiscing over the last 12 months.
In a post on Instagram, Sir David remembered his 50th birthday, his knighthood, and winning the Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup as a club owner as he looked back on the past year.
He wrote on Wednesday: "I feel very lucky to have had the year I've had in 2025 full of moments that I will never forget from my 50th to my knighthood (still pinching myself) and then finishing with winning the MLS as an owner, I'm so grateful to my incredible wife, my amazing children, my friends and team I work with every single day nothing would have been possible without you all...
"But as Sir Alex Ferguson would say "Onto the the next". Thank you for the incredible memories, I will forever remember 2025."
He also tagged his wife, Lady Victoria Beckham, and said: "I love you & our kids".
Nepal enters 2026
Wednesday 31 December 2025 18:19 , Megan HoweNepal has become the latest country to welcome in the New Year.
India and Sri Lanka will follow shortly...
In Pictures: Crowds gather in Indonesia to welcome in the New Year
Wednesday 31 December 2025 18:14 , Megan Howe
New Year's Eve firework celebrations - where are the best displays?
Wednesday 31 December 2025 18:03 , Megan HoweWith the final hours of 2026 closing in, crowds will be gathering and people looking skyward to welcome the New Year.
Several major celebrations are set to light up the night across the UK. From landmark-backed shows to lively city-centre festivals, here’s a look at some of the best firework displays taking place this New Year’s Eve.
LondonLondon’s New Year’s Eve fireworks remain the biggest and most iconic in the UK, centred around the London Eye and broadcast live on BBC One.
Tickets to the official viewing areas sold out long ago, but elevated spots still offer sweeping views across the capital.
In previous years, one of the most popular spots to view the fireworks was Primrose Hill, where 30,000 people gathered last year. However, due to concerns about safety, Metropolitan Police has confirmed that the park will close at 8pm on 31 December and will not reopen until 6am the next day.
ManchesterManchester’s free city-centre display returns to St Peter’s Square, with fireworks launched from the roof of the Central Library. Capacity is limited, so revellers are advised to arrive early, while nearby high points like Werneth Low are also popular with spectators.
EdinburghEdinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations are back after last year’s weather-related cancellation. Fireworks over the castle form the centrepiece of a wider festival, with ticketed street parties and excellent vantage points from Arthur’s Seat for those preferring a panoramic view.
NewcastleNewcastle’s “Howaymanay” brings a Geordie twist to New Year’s Eve, with festivities along the Quayside.
Two firework displays are planned – one early in the evening and another at midnight – alongside live music, food stalls and late-night celebrations.
Pope Leo XIV visits Christmas crib in St Peter's Square
Wednesday 31 December 2025 17:52 , Megan HowePope Leo XIV paused to greet the faithful as he visited the Christmas crib in St. Peter’s Square, following the first Vespers of the Solemnity of Mary and the singing of the Te Deum in St. Peter’s Basilica.
The moment formed part of the Vatican’s New Year’s Eve celebrations, marking a close to the year on December 31.
China enters 2026 in a blaze of lights and colour
Wednesday 31 December 2025 17:11 , Megan HoweCrowds gathered in front of one of Beijing’s large temples as drums sounded and lights beamed out to welcome the New Year.
New Year’s food and drink ideas
Wednesday 31 December 2025 15:53 , Nuray BulbulWhether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, the right food and drinks can make New Year’s Eve extra special. Here are some ideas:
- Canapés and finger foods – smoked salmon blinis, mini quiches, or stuffed mushrooms.
- Comfort classics – a hearty cheese board, roasted nuts, or dips with crackers and bread.
- International traditions – Spain/Latin America: 12 grapes for good luck at midnight. Italy: lentils for prosperity in the new year. Philippines: round fruits to attract wealth. Denmark: smash a few plates for good fortune (if you dare!).
- Chocolate truffles, macarons, or petit fours – easy to nibble while waiting for midnight.
- New Year-themed cupcakes or cookies – decorated with “2026” for fun photos.
In terms of drinks:
- Champagne or sparkling wine – the classic choice for the midnight toast.
- Festive cocktails – think pomegranate martinis, gin fizz, or mojitos with fresh fruit.
- Mocktails – sparkling apple cider or cranberry spritz for family-friendly celebrations.
London Tube update for tonight
Wednesday 31 December 2025 15:37 , Nuray BulbulTransport across London is running later than usual tonight to help people get to and from New Year’s Eve celebrations.
The Tube will operate extended services, but some lines including the Elizabeth line are offering a reduced service or are partially shut.
Passengers may experience crowding and delays, especially around central London stations near the Southbank, Westminster, and Tower Hill.
Tips for travellers tonight:
- Plan your route in advance and allow extra time.
- Avoid the busiest stations if possible: Southwark, Waterloo, and Westminster are expected to be particularly crowded.
- Keep an eye on Transport for London (TfL) updates for any sudden line closures or disruptions.
Stay safe and allow plenty of time to enjoy the fireworks and celebrations across the capital.
Middle East nations next in line to celebrate 2026
Wednesday 31 December 2025 15:24 , Nuray BulbulAfter making its way through east and central Asia, the New Year will next reach the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates.
Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are preparing to ring in 2026 with fireworks, music, and celebrations, marking the start of the year in this time zone.
South Korea, North Korea, and Japan enter 2026
Wednesday 31 December 2025 15:07 , Nuray BulbulAs the New Year spreads across Asia, South Korea, North Korea, and Japan have officially welcomed 2026.
Crowds gathered in city squares and around famous landmarks, counting down the final moments of 2025 before fireworks lit up the skies.
With Asia now celebrating, the global New Year countdown continues westward to the Middle East, Europe, and finally London.
Famous faces we’ve lost in 2025
Wednesday 31 December 2025 14:50 , Nuray BulbulAs 2025 draws to a close, it’s a moment to reflect on the well-known figures who passed away this year, leaving lasting marks on music, film, sport and culture.
From much-loved performers to influential creatives, their work shaped audiences and inspired generations, here are some of the celebrities we lost in 2025:
Ozzy Osbourne
Legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and heavy metal pioneer, who died aged 76 in July
Brigitte Bardot
Legendary French film star and cultural figure, remembered for her impact on cinema and later life in animal advocacy.
Michelle Trachtenberg
Star of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, gone at just 39.
Val Kilmer
Celebrated Hollywood actor known for Top Gun and Tombstone, whose passing at 65 marked the end of a storied career.
Less than 10 hours to go for London
Wednesday 31 December 2025 14:29 , Nuray Bulbul
The countdown is on in the capital, with under 10 hours to go until London rings in 2026.
Stay with us for live updates, travel advice and photos as London gets ready to see in the New Year.
Reminder that Primrose Hill will be closed this year for spectators
Wednesday 31 December 2025 14:15 , Nuray BulbulIn 2024, more than 30,000 people gathered on Primrose Hill to welcome the New Year and watch the city’s fireworks.
This year, however, the park will be closed, with the Metropolitan Police warning the public not to attempt to enter.
Find out more here.
Japan, South Korea and North Korea will celebrate the New Year next
Wednesday 31 December 2025 14:05 , Frankie Lister-Fell
New Year’s celebrations started first in the Pacific with New Zealand and Australia and is now moving West through Asia.
Japan, South Korea and North Korea will celebrate New Year next at 3pm GMT.
New Year is one of the most important holidays in Japan. Most businesses shut down from January 1 to January 3.
Here's how cold it will be in London at midnight
Wednesday 31 December 2025 13:58 , Frankie Lister-FellWhile it’s about 19C in balmy Sydney, as Australia is in their summer, temperatures are set to go below freezing in some parts of the UK for New Year’s Eve.
In London, it’s expected to be bright and chilly during the day, with highs of only 4C, according to the Met Office.
As we head into the night, temperatures are expected to drop to 2C or 3C, with a light breeze and no rain.
This means Londoners may be able to enjoy great views of the fireworks.
But for those partying into the early hours, remember it’ll be chilly on the way home, so make sure you wrap up warm.
More than 2,500 police were deployed to keep Sydney safe
Wednesday 31 December 2025 13:49 , Frankie Lister-Fell
Thousands of police, some carrying long-arm guns, were policing the much-anticipated event.
New South Wales premier Chris Minns told The Guardian: “Families will see a different type of policing operation this New Year’s Eve. It’s not normally the case that NSW police officers have long-arm guns.
“That is a clear and deliberate message from the police that safety is the No 1 priority and they will be acutely aware and alert for any threats affecting the people of this state.”
Stunning images of the fireworks display at Sydney's famous Opera House
Wednesday 31 December 2025 13:37 , Frankie Lister-Fell
The impressive firework display has finished now.
But we’ve just received beautiful photos of the show from the city’s famous Sydney Opera House.
The world-famous performing arts centre was designed by by Danish architect Jørn Utzon. It opened in 1973 after a long period of construction.
Some party goers observed the fireworks from on top of the Opera House.
People pay their respects to Bondi Beach victims by turning on torches
Wednesday 31 December 2025 13:26 , Frankie Lister-Fell
New Year’s Eve revellers turned on their mobile phones' flashlights as they observed a minute's silence to reflect on the Bondi Beach shooting attack before the countdown began.
Watch the moment Sydney was lit up by fireworks
Wednesday 31 December 2025 13:22 , Frankie Lister-FellWatch the moment 40,000 pyrotechnic effects stretching seven km (four miles) lit up the night sky in Sydney.
The fireworks stretched across iconic buildings and barges along the city’s harbour, including the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
Minute's silence held for victims of the Bondi Beach attack
Wednesday 31 December 2025 13:17 , Frankie Lister-Fell
Organisers held a minute's silence for the victims of the attack at 11.00pm local time (1200 GMT), with the Harbour Bridge lit up in white and a menorah - a symbol long used to symbolise Judaism - projected onto its pylons.
"After a tragic end to the year for our city, we hope that New Year’s Eve will provide an opportunity to come together and look with hope for a peaceful and happy 2026," Sydney's Lord Mayor Clover Moore said ahead of the event.
The father and son gunmen are alleged to have killed 15 people at a Hanukkah event on December 14, Australia's worst mass shooting in almost three decades that shocked the nation and stoked fears of rising antisemitism in the country.
Traditional Christmas celebrations at Bondi were muted this year, and several New Year events planned there were cancelled.
Around 3,000 police, some carrying long arms, were deployed in the city during the main New Year celebrations, that typically attract over a million revellers.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said on Wednesday: “We have to show defiance in the face of this terrible crime and say that we're not going to be cowed by this kind of terrorism, and we're not going to change the way we live our life in our beautiful city.”
Sydney packed with people as thousands turn up to view the fireworks
Wednesday 31 December 2025 13:11 , Frankie Lister-FellThe latest updates from Sydney’s official fireworks display show many of the viewing areas are already full.
The following areas are now at capacity:
Dawes Point (Tar-Ra)
Embarkation
Sydney really takes their #NewYearsEve fireworks seriously! 10 minutes in and it's only halfway through.
— Curt Bennett 🇨🇦 @curttalkstv.bsky.social (@CurtTalksTV) December 31, 2025
If you are near a TV, turn on a news channel and there's a good chance they're showing it. pic.twitter.com/8UFyFr2Xzl
First images from Sydney fireworks
Wednesday 31 December 2025 13:07 , Frankie Lister-Fell
Australia is one of the first countries in the world to ring in the new year.
The impressive firework display is still ongoing. We’ve just received the first official images from the event.
Mel C from the Spice Girls kicked off celebrations and fireworks have begun
Wednesday 31 December 2025 13:03 , Frankie Lister-Fell
Mel C from the Spice Girls kicked off the celebrations with a mashup of songs.
The countdown has finished and the fireworks have kicked off over Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Here’s a video of the countdown.
Happy New Year Sydney! 🥳🇦🇺
— Matthew Joyce (@ItsMatthewJoyce) December 31, 2025
2026 has started in the Australian city with its infamous fireworks off the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and buildings in the city centre!#SydNYE pic.twitter.com/xwYkxpLlru
Less than 10 minutes until Australia enters 2026
Wednesday 31 December 2025 12:53 , Nuray BulbulAustralia is counting down the final minutes to 2026.
Crowds around Sydney Harbour and the Opera House are ready for the family fireworks display, with phones and cameras poised to capture the moment.
Stay tuned for live updates as the New Year begins in Australia soon.
Everything you need to know about London's New Year’s Eve fireworks
Wednesday 31 December 2025 12:42 , Nuray Bulbul
The main fireworks show kicks off at midnight, immediately after Big Ben rings in the New Year, and continues for approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
How much do the fireworks cost?
The cost of the 2025/2026 London New Year’s fireworks has not yet been disclosed.
For context, the 2023/2024 display, which wowed crowds with around 12,000 fireworks, came with a price tag of nearly £4 million.
By comparison, last year’s event in 2024/2025 saw the budget cut almost in half, with the city spending roughly £2.5 million.
The Greater London Authority Arts and Culture Fund finances London’s New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Attending the display requires a ticket, priced between £20 and £55 per person, with proceeds helping to cover the cost of the event.
Tickets are unfortunately sold out for this year’s event.
How can I watch it from home?
You can watch the fireworks from the comfort of your home via the BBC broadcast.
Sydney remembers Bondi Beach attack victims with moment of silence
Wednesday 31 December 2025 12:16 , Nuray BulbulWith less than an hour remaining until Australia welcomes 2026, Sydney is holding a moment of silence to honour the victims of the Bondi Beach tragedy.
The attack on December 14 left 15 people dead and many more injured when gunmen opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration attended by over 1,000 people.
Authorities believe the attack was inspired by the Islamic State terror group.
Popular NYE traditions across the world
Wednesday 31 December 2025 11:52 , Nuray BulbulWhile the most common ways to ring in the New Year include countdowns, fireworks, festive meals, and making resolutions, many countries have their own unique customs as well. Some examples are:
- Watching the ball drop in Times Square, New York
- Eating 12 grapes at midnight for good luck in Spain and parts of Latin America
- Singing the traditional Auld Lang Syne”
- Kissing loved ones as the clock strikes twelve
- Wearing polka dots in the Philippines to attract prosperity
- Throwing dishes in Denmark to symbolise good fortune
- Eating lentils in Italy to welcome wealth and abundance
Australian PM’s New Year message: Hope and unity after Bondi attack
Wednesday 31 December 2025 11:31 , Nuray BulbulIn his New Year’s message as Australia gets ready to welcome 2026, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese struck a powerful emotional tone, acknowledging the sadness the nation still feels after the tragic Bondi Beach terror attack this December.
He said that while the usual joy of ringing in a new year is “tempered by the sadness of the old”, Australians have shown remarkable character in how they responded, with “the best of the Australian spirit in all its courage and compassion.”
New Zealand rings in 2026
Wednesday 31 December 2025 11:02 , Nuray BulbulNew Zealand has officially welcomed the New Year, becoming one of the first major countries to celebrate 2026.
In pictures: Crowds gather in Sydney for fireworks
Wednesday 31 December 2025 11:00 , Nuray BulbulThousands of people have flocked to Sydney Harbour to welcome 2026.
Families, friends and visitors of all ages lined the waterfront around the iconic Sydney Opera House long before sunset as the city prepares for its famous New Year’s Eve fireworks.
The family fireworks display lights up the sky in a dazzling prelude to the main event, delighting crowds with bursts of colour over the water and across the skyline.
Fury over fencing around Primrose Hill
Wednesday 31 December 2025 10:31 , Nuray BulbulResidents near Primrose Hill have expressed anger after large opaque green hoardings and temporary fencing were installed to prevent crowds from gathering to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks.
The iconic Camden park, which offered panoramic views of the London skyline, welcomed an estimated 30,000 visitors in 2024, but this year the gates will remain locked from 8pm on December 30 until 6am on January 1.
Local volunteer Amy McKeown called the closure “completely unprecedented” and likened the barriers to those used at Glastonbury.
Longtime resident Catherine Usiskin described it as “an overreaction” warning it could affect local businesses while people may still attempt to enter the park.
The Royal Parks charity, which manages Primrose Hill, said the decision was taken due to limited crowd control measures and concerns over public safety, while Scotland Yard clarified that preventing access is not the police’s responsibility.
For full coverage and more reactions from locals, read our detailed article here.
Kiribati welcomes 2026
Wednesday 31 December 2025 10:01 , Nuray BulbulThe New Year has begun its journey around the globe, with the Pacific island nation of Kiribati the first to mark the arrival of 2026.
Its largest island, Kiritimati, crossed into the New Year at 10am UK time.
When do different countries celebrate the New Year?
Wednesday 31 December 2025 09:50 , Nuray BulbulWhile London’s famous fireworks won’t light up the Thames until midnight GMT, much of the world will already be welcoming the New Year hours earlier.
10am
The first celebrations take place in parts of the Pacific, including Kiribati and Samoa.
11am-3pm
This is followed by New Zealand and Australia. Auckland will be partying as the bells strike midnight at 11am GMT, before Sydney’s harbour display sets off wild celebrations two hours later.
3-6pm
As the night goes on, the New Year moves west through Asia from Japan and South Korea to China and Southeast Asia.
8-11pm
The Middle East and Europe are next.
12am
Here in London, the New Year arrives several hours after Sydney, with Big Ben’s chimes and the Southbank fireworks marking midnight on the Thames.
5-8am (New Year’s Day)
After London rings in the year, celebrations continue across the Atlantic, with New York, Toronto and cities across South America welcoming the New Year later still, followed by the west coast of the US and parts of the Pacific.
By the time London celebrates, millions around the world are already into the New Year, while millions more are still counting down.
What is the weather going to be like tonight?
Wednesday 31 December 2025 09:21 , Nuray Bulbul
If you’re heading out to see the fireworks tonight, be prepared for a chilly end to the year.
Conditions are expected to be cold but largely dry for many, with temperatures in London hovering around 1–2C around midnight.
Skies should be mostly clear, making for good fireworks viewing, but a brisk breeze will make it feel colder, especially if you’re standing around for a while.
Layers, hats and gloves are strongly recommended.
Primrose Hill closed for New Year's Eve
Wednesday 31 December 2025 09:01 , Nuray BulbulIf you were planning to head up to Primrose Hill to catch the London skyline and fireworks tonight, there’s an important update: the park will be closed and locked from 8pm on December 30 until 6am on January 1.
This beloved viewpoint — which has drawn huge crowds in past years — won’t be accessible this New Year’s Eve due to safety concerns and limited capacity to manage large, unregulated crowds.
Officials are urging people not to attempt to access the hill and to make alternative plans to watch the celebrations elsewhere or join an official event instead.
Learn more here.
Where to watch the New Year's Eve fireworks for free
Wednesday 31 December 2025 08:41 , Nuray Bulbul
If you missed out on tickets for the Southbank display this year, there’s no need to worry, there are still several well-known spots where you can watch the fireworks for free.
Popular vantage points include:
- Alexandra Palace
- Parliament Hill, Hampstead Heath
- Hilly Fields
- Telegraph Hill
You can find out more on our guide here.
Welcome to our New Year 2026 live blog
Wednesday 31 December 2025 08:33 , Nuray BulbulAs the final moments of 2025 tick away, thousands have gathered around Sydney Harbour, eyes on the sky and cameras at the ready, for one of the world’s first major New Year fireworks displays.
From Australia and across Asia to Europe, Africa and the Americas, celebrations are beginning to roll around the globe.
We’ll be bringing you live updates, photos, key moments and atmosphere as cities welcome 2026 — from landmark fireworks and street parties to first reactions as the new year dawns.
Stay with us as the world says goodbye to 2025 and hello to 2026.
