From the stormy skies over New York to the warm beaches of Rio, the world rang in 2025 with celebration, resilience, and a few somber moments.
In Times Square, the famous ball drop went ahead despite the rain, as thousands of people gathered to mark the arrival of the new year. The nearly six-ton ball, covered in 2,688 crystal triangles, slowly descended, bringing cheers and kisses as the clock struck midnight. Despite the rainy the weather the crowd stayed upbeat, enjoying live performances by TLC and the Jonas Brothers.
Elsewhere in the U.S., Las Vegas lit up the sky with fireworks launched from casino rooftops, while Pasadena’s Rose Parade drew thousands eager to grab the best spots for the next day’s event.
In Japan, New Year’s Eve was filled with tradition. Homes and temples were cleaned in preparation for the year ahead, with the Year of the Snake symbolizing renewal and change.
In South Korea, however, the mood was somber. A deadly plane crash that killed 179 people led to scaled-back celebrations. Still, places like Mumbai and Dubai saw their usual lively celebrations. In Mumbai, crowds packed the waterfront promenade, while in Dubai, a breathtaking fireworks show at the Burj Khalifa drew thousands to the tallest building in the world.
Paris, fresh off hosting the 2024 Summer Olympics, rang in the new year with fireworks and a dazzling light show on the Champs-Élysées. The Arc de Triomphe was lit up to honor the city’s landmarks, celebrating both time and the spirit of Paris.
In Rome, New Year’s Eve also marked the beginning of Pope Francis’ Holy Year, a once-in-a-quarter-century event expected to draw millions of pilgrims in 2025. At St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope led a vespers service where he called for peace.
New Zealand, the first country to ring in 2025, kicked things off with fireworks over Auckland. Thousands gathered in the city center or climbed volcanic peaks for the best view. Hours later, Sydney followed with its iconic harbor fireworks, attracting over a million people, while Indigenous ceremonies honored the land’s first people.
On Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s biggest New Year’s Eve party drew over 2 million people, most dressed in white for good luck. The sky lit up with 12 minutes of fireworks, followed by performances from Brazilian music legends and a set by pop star Anitta.
