Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Sydney Welcomes 2026 With High-Security Fireworks and Public Tribute as Global Festivities Unfold

Hong Kong canceled its Victoria Harbour display to mourn victims of a deadly November fire.

Overview

  • Hundreds of thousands gathered around Sydney Harbour and the Opera House for the city's traditional midnight fireworks.
  • More than 2,500 police were deployed in Sydney following the December 14 antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach that killed 15 people.
  • Before the show, the crowd observed a minute of silence as a menorah and a dove were projected on the Harbour Bridge with messages of peace and unity.
  • Celebrations rolled across time zones with notable displays in Auckland, Taipei and Guangzhou, continuing the global handoff into 2026.
  • In Dubai, thousands waited hours to see the fireworks and laser show at the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest tower.