Watch The Ultimate Collection of New Year’s Eve 2024/25 Fireworks Displays

As the clock struck midnight around the globe, cities greeted 2025 with an array of breathtaking fireworks displays, dazzling drone shows, and creative pyrotechnic artistry.

From Paddington Bear’s surprise appearance in London to record-breaking spectacles in the UAE, this New Year’s Eve offered unforgettable celebrations for everyone who tuned in or attended.

Here’s a roundup of the best displays from across the world, with all the bang and brilliance you’d expect (and maybe a few surprises).

Auckland: First to the Party

The honour of kicking off 2025 went to Auckland, where fireworks launched from the iconic Sky Tower. As the first major city to welcome the New Year, Auckland set the tone with a mesmerising display that made the rest of the world eager to follow.

London: Paddington’s Heartfelt Message

Despite the damp British weather and the cancellation of Hogmanay up north, London defied the odds with an 11-minute spectacle that began with the poignant phrase, “Your New Year Is Unwritten.” Around 100,000 lucky ticketholders enjoyed a diverse soundtrack featuring Sir Elton John, One Direction, and Charli XCX, celebrating everything from the Paris Olympics to Euro 2024.

More than 12,000 fireworks and 420 lights lit up the London Eye, culminating in a heartfelt message from Paddington Bear: “Anyone can fit in” in London. As the final sparks faded, Boney M’s version of Auld Lang Syne ensured the night ended on a harmonious note.

Sydney: A Harbour Masterpiece

More than a million spectators gathered at Sydney Harbour to witness the city’s jaw-dropping show, which featured fireworks launched from the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. British pop star Robbie Williams even led a singalong in the lead-up, ensuring spirits were high. Indigenous performances added depth and cultural richness to the event, making it a celebration of Australia’s vibrant heritage as much as the new year.

Breaking Records in the UAE

Ras Al Khaimah took its fireworks game to Guinness World Record levels, setting two new titles. One was for the longest chain of fireworks, while the other was for astonishing drone artistry that created the largest aerial images of a tree and a seashell. Over 100,000 people gathered to witness the spectacle, proving that the emirate knows how to welcome a new year in unforgettable style.

Dubai, always grand, hosted an hour-long display estimated to have cost up to £10 million. Fireworks lit up the Burj Khalifa and beyond, creating a spectacle that was nothing short of opulent. While the price tag may have raised eyebrows, the city’s dedication to dazzling its audience was unmistakable.

The Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba outdid itself with a 53-minute non-stop fireworks display, setting six Guinness World Records in the process. Highlights included the largest aerial word formed by drones and a 20-minute drone display involving over 6,000 coordinated drones. The most fireworks shown in 24 hours and a stunning fan-shaped structure lit by candles also made the cut, proving that Abu Dhabi’s celebrations were nothing short of extraordinary.

Hong Kong: Victoria Harbour Spectacle

Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour once again stole the spotlight with its stunning 12-minute fireworks display. Against the iconic skyline, the pyrotechnics were synchronised with music, creating a jaw-dropping experience. The harbour has long been a favourite for locals and visitors alike, and this year’s celebration didn’t disappoint.

Taiwan: A Towering Tradition

Taiwan’s Taipei 101, a staple of the country’s New Year celebrations, dazzled once more with a choreographed fireworks and light show. This iconic skyscraper is renowned for transforming into a giant countdown clock before launching into a vivid display that combines traditional fireworks with modern LED visuals. Expect a harmonious blend of culture and innovation that symbolises Taiwan’s forward-thinking spirit.

Paris: Lighting Up the City of Light

Paris embraced its identity as the City of Light with a stunning display centred around the Arc de Triomphe on the Champs-Élysées. Hundreds of thousands of revellers flocked to the iconic avenue, celebrating a year that saw France host the Olympics and Paralympics. The reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral after years of restoration added an extra layer of pride and celebration.

Athens: Silent Elegance Over the Acropolis

Athens took a different approach, marking 2025 with silent fireworks and a light show above the Acropolis. The serene display atop the Parthenon blended ancient history with modern technology, offering a uniquely Greek way of welcoming the new year.

Rio de Janeiro: A Beachside Extravaganza

Few places in the world can rival Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach for sheer atmosphere. Though this year’s specifics remain under wraps, it’s safe to assume millions of revellers flocked to the shores for a mix of fireworks, live music, and samba dancing. Rio’s NYE is always infused with Brazilian energy, making it one of the most iconic celebrations globally.

Bangkok: The Times Square of Asia

Dubbed the “Times Square of Asia,” CentralWorld in Bangkok played host to a colourful and high-energy New Year’s Eve. Fireworks filled the sky as performances by popular Thai and international artists, such as PP Krit and Billkin, kept the crowd entertained. With its vibrant atmosphere and eye-catching displays, Bangkok solidified its reputation as one of Asia’s top NYE destinations.

Dallas: Lone Star Sparks

In Texas, Reunion Tower was the focal point of Dallas’ New Year’s celebrations. Over 5,000 pyrotechnic effects lit up the sky, though the absence of a drone show—cancelled after safety concerns elsewhere—was noticeable. Despite this, the fireworks ensured a vibrant start to 2025.

From the quiet elegance of Athens to the record-breaking marvels of Abu Dhabi and the heartfelt charm of London, this New Year’s Eve truly showcased the diversity and creativity of global celebrations. Whether you’re drawn to cultural traditions, cutting-edge technology, or just a good old-fashioned fireworks show, there’s no denying that 2024 ended with a bang in the best way possible.

Want to see how these displays compare to last year's?

Relive the best displays from some of the most iconic landmarks across the world and watch 2024's best new years eve firework displays from around the globe.