Global, Jan 01, (V7N) - "As the clock strikes midnight across the globe, millions are celebrating the arrival of 2025. From Auckland to Rio de Janeiro, spectacular fireworks, cultural ceremonies, and moments of reflection marked the transition into the new year. While some countries rejoiced in festive gatherings, others observed the occasion in a more subdued mood due to ongoing conflicts. Here’s a look at how the world welcomed 2025, with celebrations, traditions, and moments of unity and remembrance."

New Year in the Pacific

Auckland, New Zealand, was the first major city to celebrate the new year, drawing thousands who gathered in the downtown area and on volcanic peaks to witness spectacular fireworks. The light display also acknowledged the Indigenous people of the land.

New Zealand’s position in the South Pacific places it 18 hours ahead of New York, making it one of the first to ring in the New Year.

Fireworks in Sydney

Australia's Sydney welcomed 2025 with an impressive fireworks display launched from the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Over a million people crowded the harbor, enjoying not only the colorful show but also Indigenous performances and ceremonies acknowledging the land’s first people. British pop star Robbie Williams led a singalong with the crowd.

Asian Traditions and Mourning

Japan, preparing for the Year of the Snake, began its largest holiday, with nationwide shutdowns for cleaning and reflection. The Year of the Snake is symbolized by rebirth and renewal, as the reptile sheds its skin.

In South Korea, celebrations were muted due to a national mourning period following a tragic plane crash that killed 179 people.

Thailand's Bangkok saw a lively celebration with shopping malls competing for attention through live performances and fireworks. Indonesian Jakarta featured an eye-catching drone light show to celebrate the new year.

China and Russia Strengthen Ties

In a symbolic gesture of solidarity, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin exchanged New Year’s greetings, reaffirming their countries' growing partnership despite tensions with the West. Xi also reiterated China’s stance on Taiwan, calling the island part of “one family” with China.

Middle Eastern Conflicts

In Israel, the ongoing war with Hamas cast a shadow over New Year celebrations, with many observing the occasion in a subdued manner. Similarly, in Lebanon and Syria, the aftermath of conflict left the people uncertain as they entered 2025. However, in Dubai, the Burj Khalifa hosted thousands for a dazzling fireworks show.

Holy Year in Rome

Rome marked the start of a Holy Year, a rare celebration held once every quarter-century. Millions of pilgrims are expected to visit the Eternal City for this significant occasion, which began with a vespers service at St. Peter's Basilica, followed by a Mass led by Pope Francis.

European Reflections

In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz delivered a message of unity, urging citizens to draw strength from togetherness despite economic challenges and a deadly Christmas market attack. Meanwhile, in France, Paris capped off a year of Olympic celebrations with a traditional countdown and fireworks along the Champs-Elysées, reflecting on the city’s recovery from past tragedies.

London and Wintry Weather

London rang in the new year with its annual pyrotechnic display over the River Thames, though other parts of the UK faced bitter weather. The storm prompted the cancellation of festivities in Edinburgh, Scotland, including the Hogmanay Street party.

Rio de Janeiro's Beach Party

Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro hosted its main New Year's Eve celebration at Copacabana Beach, where over two million people gathered to enjoy fireworks, concerts by Brazilian music stars like Anitta and Caetano Veloso, and a vibrant party atmosphere.

American Traditions

In the United States, New York's Times Square continued its iconic tradition of the ball drop, which dates back to 1907. This year, musical performances by TLC, Jonas Brothers, and Rita Ora were featured. Las Vegas held its own spectacular pyrotechnic show on the Strip, with 340,000 revelers anticipated. Additionally, the Sphere venue in Las Vegas debuted a countdown to midnight in different time zones.

A Global Tradition

As the final major city to welcome the new year, American Samoa’s celebrations will come 24 hours after New Zealand, marking the end of the global wave of New Year’s festivities.

In summary, 2025 was ushered in with spectacular displays, cultural traditions, and moments of both joy and reflection, as communities around the world celebrated the hope of a new year.

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