WELLINGTON, New Zealand — From Sydney to Vladivostok, communities around the world have begun welcoming 2025 with spectacular light shows, embraces and ice plunges.

Countries across east and south-east Asia including China, the Philippines and Malaysia have welcomed in the new year with firework displays and drone shows Celebrations have been scaled back or cancelled in South Korea following the Muan air crash on Sunday in which 179 people died Sydney saw in 2025 with a spectacular fireworks display - cheers erupted as the clock struck midnight and the skies lit up over the harbour Coming up: India's 1.

BISMARCK, ND ( KXNET) — As New Year’s Eve celebrations kick off, fireworks are set to light up the night sky. However, experts and officials are reminding residents about safety — and the law— to ensure the festivities don’t end in fines, fires, or injuries. In Bismarck, lighting fireworks is illegal within city limits.

There’s plenty of fun waiting with fireworks, but a good early new year’s resolution is to stay safe when using them.

1. Use Fireworks in Open, Outdoor Spaces. Always light fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area, away from buildings, trees, and any dry grass or leaves. Never ignite fireworks indoors.