Ancient astrologers warn the 2026 Year of the Fire Horse, starting 17 February, may bring chaotic events. Explore the Japanese superstition, its history, and modern astrological insights for your love life.
Queen Camilla warns of an 'urgent' literacy crisis as global reading rates plummet. Her charity, The Queen's Reading Room, marks five years fighting to get people back into books.
Queen Camilla warns of a global reading crisis as rates plummet, especially among children. Her charity, The Queen's Reading Room, marks five years fighting for literacy.
Queen Camilla declares her literacy charity's mission 'more urgent than ever' as reading rates hit their lowest point. Her Reading Room marks five years with a new 'Make Room for Reading' drive.
Queen Camilla declares her mission to get people reading is 'more urgent than ever' as charity marks five years. New drive encourages just five minutes of daily reading.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer tells Reading residents that 2026 will see people feel a real difference in their finances. Read his pledges on rail fares, energy bills, and childcare.
As 2026 is declared the UK's National Year of Reading, fears of a 'post-literate society' are challenged. Discover why books and the life of the mind have a robust future.
A top psychic predicts 2026 will be a year of extremes, from wild weather and political surprises to major celebrity news. Discover the detailed forecasts for the UK and beyond.
From Lily Allen's tour to Catherine Zeta-Jones' TV comeback and Margot Robbie in Wuthering Heights, discover the must-see entertainment of 2026.
Your complete guide to unmissable television in 2026, from the return of Disney's steamy 'Rivals' and Richard Gadd's 'Half Man' to a new 'Buffy' series and major drama premieres.
Plan your 2026 with The Independent's guide to the year's biggest cultural events, from Tracey Emin at Tate Modern to Spielberg's 'Disclosure Day' and a new 'Pride & Prejudice'.
A wave of unprecedented violence and deadly fireworks marred New Year's in the Netherlands, killing two and destroying a historic church. Emergency services were stretched to breaking point. Read the full report.
Hundreds across the UK braved freezing seas for the 100-year-old New Year's Day swim tradition. See pictures and read why some events were cancelled due to dangerous conditions.
Hundreds of swimmers across the UK braved freezing seas for the annual New Year's Day swim, a century-old tradition. See pictures and locations from Southend to Scotland.
Hundreds of Birmingham revellers were left disappointed after gathering for a non-existent New Year's Eve fireworks display for the second year running. West Midlands Police had issued warnings.
Hundreds of Birmingham revellers were left disappointed after gathering for a second year for a non-existent New Year's Eve fireworks display, following false online claims. West Midlands Police had issued warnings.
From Amanda Holden's elegant family affair to Kelly Osbourne's farm visit, an etiquette expert delivers her verdict on which UK celebrities nailed their New Year's Eve style. See who was classy and who missed the mark.
Over 8,000 performers dazzled crowds in London's New Year's Day Parade, following a spectacular fireworks display watched by 100,000. Discover the highlights.
As 2026 begins, age-old superstitions warn against six everyday activities on January 1st to avoid misfortune. Discover what not to do for a lucky year ahead.
Cities worldwide, from Sydney's harbour to London's Thames, ushered in 2026 with breathtaking fireworks and joyous crowds. Discover how the planet celebrated the new year.
Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo were up with newborn Ziggy while stars like Amanda Holden and Elizabeth Hurley partied. See how UK celebrities welcomed 2026.
Don't overlook 2025's literary gems. Discover five standout book releases, from Malala's memoir to space-age fiction, perfect for your 2026 reading list. Share your favourites!
Swedish pop star Zara Larsson delivered a show-stopping performance on Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve, wearing a glittering sequin dress. Discover all the details from the star-studded event.
London's Mayor hails 'greatest' NYE show as 100,000 watch Europe's largest display. See photos from Edinburgh, Manchester & global cities. Welcome 2026 with a bang!
Around 100,000 people defied near-zero temperatures to watch London's spectacular New Year fireworks display over the Thames, celebrating 2025's highlights. Read the full story.
A deadly explosion and fire ripped through a popular bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort during New Year celebrations. Several fatalities confirmed as emergency services respond.
Sydney Harbour Bridge erupted in a breathtaking pyrotechnic display to welcome 2026. Watch the stunning video showcasing Australia's iconic New Year's Eve celebrations.
A father's simple 2026 resolution to improve his relationship with his kids has resonated deeply online. Discover the viral Reddit post and how it reflects modern parenting goals.
Ditch the usual resolutions. Discover four unique 31-day challenges for 2026 to boost savings, fitness, cooking skills, and hobbies. Start your year with achievable goals.
Discover five standout books from 2025 that you should add to your 2026 reading list, featuring memoirs, historical fiction, and myth retellings from acclaimed authors.