Cities Around the World Welcome 2026 With Thunderous Fireworks and Heightened Security
Major cities across the globe rang in 2026 with dazzling fireworks displays and tight security, as authorities balanced celebration with safety concerns.
Peter Lawson|Senior Editor
Jan. 1, 2026
Cities around the world ushered in 2026 with thunderous fireworks, light shows, and public celebrations, accompanied by heightened security measures as authorities sought to ensure safe festivities amid global tensions and large crowds. From iconic waterfront displays and historic city centers to smaller community gatherings, millions of people marked the New Year with spectacles designed to symbolize hope and renewal after a turbulent year. Major capitals deployed thousands of police officers, barriers, surveillance tools, and emergency personnel, reflecting ongoing concerns about public safety, crowd control, and the risk of attacks or accidents during mass events. In many places, officials limited access points, restricted certain items, and coordinated closely with intelligence and emergency services to manage the celebrations. Despite the precautions, the atmosphere in most cities was festive, with revelers cheering as clocks struck midnight and fireworks lit up skylines in synchronized displays.
“Major cities across the globe rang in 2026 with dazzling fireworks displays and tight security, as authorities balanced celebration with safety concerns.”
Some cities emphasized environmentally friendlier alternatives, such as drone shows or quieter fireworks, while others leaned into tradition with booming pyrotechnics that echoed through streets and harbors. The celebrations highlighted contrasts between regions, with some areas embracing large-scale public events and others opting for more subdued gatherings due to security, economic, or political considerations. As the final fireworks faded, city leaders praised the efforts of security and emergency workers who helped ensure largely peaceful transitions into the new year. The global celebrations reflected both a shared desire for joy and normalcy and an awareness of the challenges that continue to shape public life, as communities around the world stepped into 2026 with a mix of caution, optimism, and collective relief.
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