Sydney paid tribute to the victims of a Hanukkah shooting, Indonesia scaled back due to deadly floods, Hong Kong held a muted event following a fire, and New York prepared for a secure ball drop commemorating the United States' 250th birthday.

2026 began with fireworks in Auckland, New Zealand, and a defiant New Year's Eve celebration in Sydney, Australia, following a mass shooting at a Hanukkah gathering that left 15 people dead and 40 injured. Sydney displayed police with rapid-fire rifles, held a minute of silence, and projected a menorah onto the Harbour Bridge. Due to floods and landslides that killed over 1,100 people, Indonesia had to reduce celebrations, and Hong Kong had a muted celebration following a fatal fire. While Berlin, Greece, and Cyprus used more subdued, pet-friendly displays, Japan and South Korea rang in the year with temple bell ceremonies. With new mayor Zohran Mamdani scheduled to take office, New York City has increased security for its Times Square ball drop, which will commemorate the United States' 250th birthday.