(VOVWORLD) - Around the world, people gathered to celebrate the arrival of 2025 with vibrant fireworks, cultural festivals, and traditions that honor their unique heritage.
In Sydney, Australia, the iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbor dazzled spectators, drawing large crowds of Australians and tourists to the waterfront to enjoy the lively countdown atmosphere.
In Auckland, New Zealand, thousands gathered in the city center for spectacular fireworks and light shows, marking the first major celebration of the New Year worldwide.
In London, United Kingdom, the skies over the Thames River lit up with a stunning fireworks display, as crowds celebrated in the heart of the capital.
On the Champs-Élysées in Paris, France, tens of thousands watched a breathtaking fireworks show at the Arc de Triomphe, reveling in the festive spirit.
In Switzerland and the Netherlands, despite the freezing temperatures, hundreds embraced the cold by plunging into rivers, lakes, and seas—a daring tradition to ring in the New Year.
In Berlin, Germany, thousands filled the streets near the Brandenburg Gate, enjoying music festivals and a brilliant fireworks display.
In Beijing, China, people flocked to shopping centers, parks, and entertainment hubs to celebrate the moment of transition into the New Year.
Liu Bang, a student in Beijing, shared his hopes: "The program was fantastic, and the atmosphere was exciting. I hope 2025 brings satisfaction to everyone. Our country has made great progress in industry, agriculture, and technology, and I look forward to achieving the goal of national rejuvenation."
In Japan, New Year’s Eve was marked by the solemn ringing of temple and shrine bells, a tradition believed to cleanse sins and bring luck for the coming year. After prayers, visitors enjoyed warm amazake, creating a peaceful and cozy start to the year.
In Bangkok, Thailand, the Chao Phraya River became the centerpiece of the celebration with a dazzling fireworks display that captivated locals and tourists alike.
In Malaysia, fireworks and a light show near the iconic Petronas Twin Towers brought the New Year spirit to life in Kuala Lumpur.
In Mumbai, India, the financial capital of the country, crowds of locals and tourists gathered to sing and count down together. The city welcomed 2025 with an impressive fireworks display and hopeful wishes for the year ahead.
At the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve, the iconic Crystal Ball descended from the roof of the 25-story One Times building in Times Square, New York City, marking the transition from 2024 to 2025. This time-honored tradition, known as the Ball Drop or Countdown event, drew an estimated crowd of one million people to the heart of Manhattan.
Leading up to the momentous countdown, a lineup of dynamic performances by renowned artists electrified the atmosphere, building excitement and anticipation among the gathered crowd. The celebration in Times Square, a global symbol of New Year’s festivities, once again captivated the world with its energy and grandeur.
From Europe to Asia and beyond, these celebrations showcased the universal joy of New Year’s Eve, uniting people worldwide in a moment of shared excitement and optimism.