New Year celebrations: From London, Auckland to Dubai; world welcomes 2025 with stunning fireworks | See pics, videos | Today News

Happy New Year: As the clock struck midnight across the globe, cities from London to Dubai illuminated the skies with stunning fireworks and light displays, welcoming 2025. Crowds gathered in major landmarks, celebrating the New Year with joy and excitement.

Auckland became the first major city to celebrate, as thousands thronged downtown or climbed the city’s ring of volcanic peaks for a fireworks vantage point.

Rio de Janeiro was throwing Brazil’s main New Year’s Eve bash on Copacabana Beach, with barges shooting off 12 straight minutes of fireworks. Thousands of tourists in cruise ships and charter boats were dropping anchor to witness the show up close, while many were streaming onto the sand to find their spot.

In Dubai, thousands attended  fireworks show at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper. 

In Sydney, fireworks blasted off the Harbour Bridge and across the bay. More than a million Australians and others gathered at iconic Sydney Harbour for the celebration. British pop star Robbie Williams led a singalong with the crowd.