Global Celebrations Usher in 2025 with Fireworks and Festivities

Auckland has set the stage for 2025 by becoming the first major city to celebrate the New Year. Thousands gathered to watch brilliant fireworks from the Sky Tower and partake in a dazzling downtown light show, paying tribute to Auckland’s Indigenous tribes after a year of Maori rights protests.

Cities worldwide are gearing up for New Year's festivities, integrating local customs and traditions. Sydney expects over a million people at its harbor for fireworks, accompanied by performances led by British pop star Robbie Williams honoring Indigenous cultures, while Tokyo prepares for the Year of the Snake.

Amid global conflicts and political tension, leaders emphasized cooperation and solidarity. In China, Xi Jinping and Russia's Vladimir Putin exchanged greetings, underscoring deepening Sino-Russian ties. Meanwhile, in war-affected regions like the Middle East, celebrations are muted, marking another challenging year. However, global revelers remain optimistic, welcoming 2025 with resilience and hope.