As the world prepares to wave goodbye to 2025 and usher in 2026, cities across the globe are gearing up for some of the most spectacular New Year’s Eve countdown celebrations ever. From roaring beach parties to dazzling fireworks over iconic skylines, here are 8 of the biggest New Year’s Eve countdown events you’ll want to know about.
Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro
The Réveillon celebration on Copacabana Beach is consistently ranked among the largest New Year’s Eve parties in the world, with about two million revellers gathering along the sands every year. To welcome 2026, the massive party will feature 13 stages, over 70 musical acts, and a major fireworks and drone show never before seen in history.
Sydney Harbour, Australia
Sydney’s New Year’s Eve celebration is iconic thanks to its spectacular fireworks over Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Due to Australia’s time zone advantage, it is also one of the first major displays in the world. Millions flock to vantage points, yachts, parks, and cruises to catch this incredible show over the breathtaking waters.
Times Square Ball Drop, New York City
Perhaps the most globally recognised countdown tradition, New York City’s Times Square ball drop has kicked off the New Year for over a century. Crowds pack the streets for hours to witness the glittering Waterford crystal ball descend atop One Times Square, followed by confetti showers and music performances. A newly created New Year’s eve ball adorned with 5,280 Waterford crystals (the ninth iteration) awaits.
Burj Khalifa, Dubai
Dubai’s Emaar New Year’s Eve at the Burj Khalifa delivers one of the most cinematic New Year’s Eve celebrations on the planet. A towering Guinness-record breaking light and laser show surrounds the façade of the world’s tallest building, synchronised with fireworks and fountain displays at The Dubai Fountain, drawing spectators from around the globe. This year, the epic New Year’s celebrations will run until January 7th.
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay
In Edinburgh, New Year’s is turned into a vast festival. Hogmanay is a multi-day celebration culminating in a huge street party on Princes Street with live music and dancing, capped by fireworks over Edinburgh Castle at midnight. It is indeed the best way to experience Scottish culture, music, traditional songs, and grandeur all in one.
Taipei New Year’s Eve Party
Taipei’s official New Year’s Eve party in City Hall Square is anchored by sensational fireworks bursting around Taipei 101, one of the tallest buildings in the world. For 2026, it will also be made extra special as celebrations start five days early with nightly Disney-themed projection shows projected onto the tower from December 27 to 31.
Bangkok Countdown Celebrations
Bangkok has quickly become a sought-after New Year’s Eve destination for its massive celebrations featuring multiple countdowns. CentralWorld Bangkok, often called the “Times Square of Asia”, showcases live concerts, fireworks, and performances, while the Amazing Thailand Countdown at ICONSIAM lights up the Chao Phraya River with music and spectacle. You can literally choose your own adventure!
London New Year’s Fireworks
London’s New Year celebrations unfold along the River Thames, where fireworks erupt around the London Eye just as Big Ben marks midnight. The spectacle is tightly choreographed, dramatic, and unmistakably British. While the event has become ticketed in recent years to keep crowds in check, the atmosphere remains electric with glittering reflections on the water, historic silhouettes in the background, and a countdown that you’d never forget.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik transforms into a cosy yet banging New Year’s Eve celebration where fireworks paint the sky over snow‑dusted rooftops, huge bonfires warm crowds, and locals and visitors alike gather to welcome midnight with magical energy. The city’s rooftop views and harbour backdrop make the fireworks spectacle even more dramatic.
Marina Bay, Singapore
Singapore’s New Year’s Eve celebrations come alive at Marina Bay, where fireworks burst over the skyline framed by Marina Bay Sands, the Esplanade, and the glittering waterfront. Expect live performances, light installations, a Christmas market, and a diverse crowd that combines locals, travellers, and party-ready expats, all counting down against one of Asia’s most futuristic cityscapes.
Featured image: Loegunn Lai
