Kiribati, an island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, was the first to celebrate, marking the start of January 1, 2025, earlier today. The country is located in the world’s earliest time zone, UTC+14.

As the first country to welcome 2025, Kiribati, also known as Christmas Island, was followed shortly after by New Zealand. Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower lit up the night sky with a spectacular fireworks display, drawing thousands of spectators to ring in the New Year.

Australia followed suit, with Sydney’s world-famous fireworks over Sydney Harbour attracting large crowds despite some disruptions. The celebrations in both nations set the tone for the global festivities that would follow.

Fireworks during New Year's Eve celebrations in Sydney, Australia, December 31, 2024

In Asia, Japan and South Korea soon joined the festivities. Japan welcomed the New Year with traditional ceremonies and cultural rituals, while South Korea, in observance of a national mourning period, kept the celebrations more subdued. Both nations celebrated in their unique ways, embracing the New Year in their respective time zones.

As the evening wore on, countries across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, began their celebrations.

Meanwhile, nations in South Asia, like India and Sri Lanka, were preparing to usher in 2025. The global progression of New Year celebrations continued across the globe, as each time zone marked the arrival of the New Year in succession.

Rwanda will welcome the New Year 12 hours after Kiritimati Island in Kiribati due to the time difference.

The City of Kigali authorities have confirmed that the night sky in Kigali will be lit up with a spectacular fireworks display on Tuesday night. The fireworks show will conclude the countdown to the New Year at exactly midnight on January 1.

According to a public notice issued on December 30, celebrations will take place at Canal Olympia, Rebero, and Imbuga City Walk in the City Centre.

Fireworks will also be displayed at key locations, including the Kigali Convention Centre and Kigali Serena Hotel, offering a stunning visual experience for thousands of revellers.

Kiribati, an island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, was the first to celebrate, marking the start of January 1, 2025, earlier today. The country is located in the world's earliest time zone, UTC+14.