As the world rings in 2026, revellers can watch dazzling New Year's Eve fireworks displays live from major cities including Sydney, Tokyo and London. However, some celebrations have been scaled back or cancelled due to safety concerns.
Hong Kong will not hold its traditional fireworks over Victoria Harbour after a fire in November killed at least 161 people. Instead, the tourism board will host a music show featuring soft rock duo Air Supply in the Central business district on Wednesday night.
In London, access to Primrose Hill will be blocked from 8pm on New Year's Eve, after an estimated 30,000 people gathered there in 2024. The Royal Parks charity cited diminished crowd management capacity due to the closure of the Metropolitan Police's Royal Parks Operational Command Unit. Commander Nick John urged people to make alternative plans, stating that anyone trying to enter the park will find it impossible.
Those planning to attend outdoor celebrations in the UK are advised to wear extra layers, as temperatures are expected to be around 1–2C at midnight in London. Forecaster Simon Partridge said it will be 'cold regardless of where you are' as 2026 begins.
