As December 31, 2025 draws to a close, the world prepares to step into 2026. While the New Year officially begins at midnight, that moment does not arrive everywhere at the same time. Due to Earth’s rotation and global time zones, the celebration unfolds gradually, creating a rolling wave of countdowns across the planet.

From quiet Pacific islands to the world’s busiest cities, the New Year is welcomed in stages—each region adding its own traditions, fireworks, and festive spirit.

Why the New Year Is Celebrated at Different Times

The Earth is divided into 24 time zones, which means midnight strikes at different hours across the globe. As a result, New Year celebrations span more than 24 hours, making it one of the few global events experienced continuously around the world.

Where the New Year Begins First

Kiritimati Island, Kiribati — The First to Welcome 2026

The first place on Earth to welcome the New Year is Kiritimati Island in Kiribati. Located in the UTC+14 time zone, just west of the International Date Line, this remote Pacific island enters the New Year before any other region.

Often known as Christmas Island, Kiritimati has become a global symbol of the world’s earliest New Year countdown.

New Zealand Joins Next

Following Kiribati, New Zealand is next in line. The Chatham Islands celebrate first, followed by mainland cities. Auckland hosts one of the country’s most iconic celebrations, with crowds gathering around the Sky Tower for fireworks and countdown events.

Australia Lights Up the Sky

A few hours later, Australia welcomes the New Year. Sydney, on the east coast, leads the celebrations with its world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge fireworks, watched by millions globally. Other Australian cities follow as midnight moves westward across the country.

New Year Across Asia

East Asia: Tradition Meets Modern Celebration

After Australia, the New Year arrives in Japan and South Korea. These countries blend ancient traditions with modern festivities. In Japan, Buddhist temples ring bells 108 times, symbolising purification, alongside fireworks and public celebrations.

China and Southeast Asia

The New Year then reaches China and Southeast Asia. While China’s major celebration comes during the Lunar New Year, cities still mark December 31 with large public events. Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia host impressive fireworks, especially in waterfront areas.

India’s Place in the Global Countdown

India Welcomes 2026 Midway

After Southeast Asia, it is India’s turn to celebrate the New Year. Falling roughly midway in the global timeline, India sees vibrant celebrations across major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Goa.

Alongside parties and public events, many Indians prefer family gatherings, prayers, and quiet reflections, making the celebration both festive and meaningful.

Europe and the Americas Take Over

Europe Rings in the New Year

From India, midnight moves west into Western Asia and Europe. Cities across Europe celebrate across multiple time zones.

• London welcomes the New Year with Big Ben’s chimes

• Paris lights up the Eiffel Tower

• Berlin hosts massive street parties at the Brandenburg Gate

Each city brings its own cultural flavour to the occasion.

The Americas Celebrate Next

The New Year then reaches the Americas, where celebrations are equally diverse.
From Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro to the iconic Times Square Ball Drop in New York City, millions gather to welcome the year with music, fireworks, and public events.

Who Celebrates the New Year Last

American Samoa and Baker Islands — The Final Countdown

The last places in the world to welcome the New Year are American Samoa and the Baker and Howland Islands, located in the UTC−12 time zone. Midnight here arrives nearly a full day after Kiribati, officially bringing the global New Year celebration to an end.

A Celebration That Connects the World

From the first spark of fireworks in the Pacific to the final countdown in the Americas, the New Year is a reminder of how time zones connect the entire planet in one shared moment of hope.

As 2026 begins its journey across the globe, it carries with it fresh dreams, new resolutions, and renewed optimism for people everywhere.