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Vorschulkinder auf Kiritimati, die in traditionellen Kostümen gekleidet sind
Auf Kiritimati wird das neue Jahr als erstes begrüßt, Bild:

New Year’s Eve 2024/2025: Where will the New Year be celebrated first?

New Year’s Eve is a global event that is celebrated around the globe. While the year 2024 is still ending in Germany, it has already begun in other places in the world. But where does the new year begin first? In this blog article, we’ll take you on a journey around the world – hour by hour, from one fascinating destination to the next.

1. Kiritimati, Kiribati (11:00 a.m. German time)

Kiritimati, also known as Christmas Island, is located in the central Pacific Ocean and is the first inhabited place in the world to welcome the New Year. The island is part of Kiribati and offers stunning beaches, unspoiled nature and a rich underwater world. New Year’s Eve in Kiritimati is a quiet, nature-oriented experience that appeals especially to travelers who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the big cities.

2. Auckland, New Zealand (12:00 p.m. German time)

Just an hour later, the sky over Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, glows with spectacular fireworks displays. The Sky Tower, a landmark of the city, becomes the backdrop for an impressive light show every year. In the surrounding parks and at the harbor, locals and visitors celebrate the New Year together with music, good food and an exuberant atmosphere.

3. Sydney, Australia (14:00 German time)

Sydney is one of the most famous destinations for New Year’s Eve celebrations and delights with its world-famous fireworks display on the harbour. The Opera House and the Harbour Bridge provide an unforgettable backdrop, while thousands of people watch the spectacle on boats and along the shorelines. For an unforgettable experience, you should reserve a place in one of the restaurants or on a tour boat in good time.

4. Tokyo, Japan (16:00 German time)

Tokyo Skyline
The skyline of Tokyo, Image: f11photo / shutterstock

In Tokyo, the turn of the year is characterized by a unique mixture of tradition and modernity. While the temple bells are rung 108 times to ring in the New Year, many people celebrate in the lively street neighborhoods like Shibuya. The traditional eating of soba noodles, which is said to bring good luck for the New Year, is also part of the ritual.

5. Bangkok, Thailand (18:00 German time)

The Thai capital Bangkok is transformed into a vibrant celebration on New Year’s Eve with countless fireworks and parties. Especially the banks of the Chao Phraya River are a hotspot for revelers who welcome the New Year with live music and a unique view. The roof terraces of the hotels also offer impressive panoramas.

6. Dubai, United Arab Emirates (21:00 German time)

Dubai is famous for its luxurious and elaborate New Year’s Eve celebrations. The fireworks display at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, attracts visitors from all over the world, or you can celebrate the New Year in style with a stylish dinner cruise on a traditional dhow boat.

7. Athens, Greece (23:00 German time)

Athens, Acropolis
The Athenian Acropolis with the Parthenon Temple. Image: Sven Hansche / shutterstock

In the historic metropolis of Athens, New Year’s Eve is celebrated with a special mix of tradition and modernity. Many people gather in Syntagma Square, where live music and an impressive fireworks display are offered. Another highlight is the view of the illuminated Acropolis, which gives the city a magical atmosphere.

8. Berlin, Germany (00:00 German time)

At the turn of the year, the New Year’s Eve trip finally reaches Germany. In Berlin, the capital, millions of people gather on the Straße des 17. Juni to experience the gigantic fireworks display at the Brandenburg Gate. Numerous stages with music and shows ensure an unforgettable night.

9. Reykjavík, Iceland (01:00 German time)

In the Icelandic capital Reykjavík, residents celebrate the turn of the year in a unique way. Everywhere in the city, people set off fireworks, which makes for a spectacular picture. The view of the fireworks with the Northern Lights in the sky is particularly magical – an experience that will never be forgotten.

10. New York City, USA (06:00 German time)

New Year's Eve New York
A classic New Year’s Eve destination: New York, Image: spyarm / shutterstock

The trip ends in New York City, where Times Square is the site of the famous Ball Drop ceremony . Hundreds of thousands gather to welcome the New Year together. The streets are full of life, and the vibe is electric as confetti rains down from the sky and people dance in the streets.

Result

The journey around the world on New Year’s Eve shows how differently and yet solemnly the turn of the year is celebrated. Each destination has its own charm and offers unforgettable moments. Whether you’re taking it easy or looking for a big party, the New Year always starts with a special magic somewhere in the world.