Fireworks were launched across Australia, New Zealand and China as some major cities in east Asia and Oceania were among the first to celebrate the new year, as other countries worldwide—including the U.S.—wait to welcome 2024.
Fireworks light up the sky over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House during New ... [+]
Parts of New Zealand, including the capital city of Wellington and Auckland, celebrated New Year’s Day at 6 a.m. EST (midnight Sunday night local time), while most of Australia—including Melbourne and Sydney—launched fireworks at 8 a.m. EST.
China, the Philippines, Malaysia and parts of Indonesia celebrated New Year’s Day at 11 a.m. EST, while other Asian countries like Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam will celebrate at noon.
Parts of eastern Europe will ring in the new year starting at 3 p.m. EST, followed by Germany, Italy and France at 6 p.m. EST, while the U.K., Portugal, Iceland and parts of West Africa will enter the new year at 7 p.m.
Most Americans will be among the last to celebrate the new year, as Hawaiians won’t hit midnight until 5 a.m. EST on Monday, while some unincorporated U.S. territories like Baker Island and Howland Island will enter the new year at 7 a.m EST on Monday.
Fireworks explode over the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Fireworks light up the sky over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
New Year's fireworks explode over the skyline in Melbourne, Australia.
The New Year's fireworks are seen in Melbourne, Australia.
Tourists celebrate the New Year in Huaian, China.
Huaian, China celebrates New Year's Day.
People celebrate the New Year in central Seoul.
Fireworks illuminate the night sky in Bali, Indonesia.
Fireworks burst from the Sky Tower in Auckland, New Zealand.
People release balloons in front of the Tokyo Tower in Tokyo.
Fireworks explode over Victoria Harbour to celebrate the New Year in Hong Kong.
People watch as fireworks light up the sky in Manila, Philippines.
Follow The New Year Around The World (CNN)
Sydney And Auckland Are The First Major Cities To Ring In 2024 As War Shadows Celebrations Elsewhere (Associated Press)