As 2026 began, cities across Asia and beyond marked the new year with celebrations shaped by recent tragedies and calls for solidarity. Auckland led the festivities with a vibrant fireworks display, while Australia hosted a defiant celebration in Sydney following its worst mass shooting in decades. The event featured a minute of silence and projections of a menorah to honor the victims, with officials urging residents not to be intimidated by violence.

Elsewhere, Indonesia and Hong Kong opted for subdued events in the wake of natural disasters and a deadly fire, focusing on prayers, reflection, and light shows rather than traditional fireworks. Many Asian cities observed age-old traditions, such as bell-striking ceremonies in Japan and South Korea. In Europe, Berliners welcomed the new year amid snowfall, while Greece and Cyprus introduced low-noise fireworks to create a more inclusive atmosphere.

New York City prepared for its iconic Times Square ball drop with heightened security measures and patriotic displays, including a special celebration for the country's upcoming milestone anniversary. The global approach to ringing in 2026 reflected resilience, remembrance, and adaptation to recent challenges.