New Year's Eve 2026 celebrations kick off as the new year dawns around the world
CBS News••world
Key Points:
- New Zealand was the first country to welcome 2026, celebrating with a large fireworks display from Auckland's Sky Tower despite rainy weather, while smaller events were canceled due to forecasts.
- Sydney's New Year's Eve celebrations were marked by heightened security following a recent ISIS-inspired terror attack targeting a Hanukkah event, including a moment of silence and light displays honoring the victims.
- Indonesia and Hong Kong scaled back or altered their festivities out of respect for recent tragedies, such as deadly floods in Indonesia and a fatal apartment fire in Hong Kong, opting for subdued or cultural events instead of fireworks.
- Traditional New Year customs were observed across Asia, including temple bells in Japan and bell tolling in South Korea, while Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted
