New Year 2026 has already arrived: where in the world is it celebrated first.

According to ТСН: While Ukraine prepares for the holiday, some countries around the world have already started celebrating the year 2026. The first to mark the New Year were the residents of the Line Islands and Kiribati, who kicked off the festivities.

New Year 2026 around the world

The islands of the Pacific Ocean welcomed the New Year 2026 first. At 12:00 December 31 according to Kyiv time, the New Year began in the Line Islands, which are part of Kiribati in Polynesia.

At 13:00 Kyiv time, celebrations will start in New Zealand, especially on the Chatham Islands, as well as at certain Antarctic stations. The Far East part of Russia, including Kamchatka, will greet the New Year at 14:00.

Between 14:30 and 15:00 Kyiv time, they will celebrate in Australia. At 17:00 Kyiv time, the New Year will arrive in Japan and South Korea, followed by China and Indonesia. Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia will celebrate the New Year at 20:00, and Turkey at 23:00.

At midnight, Ukraine will welcome the New Year. Celebrations will also begin in Romania, Greece, Israel, and Finland.

At 01:00 January 1 Kyiv time, the New Year will begin in Western and Central Europe, as well as parts of Africa. At 05:00 celebrations will start in Brazil. Eastern Canada, numerous Caribbean islands, and certain South American countries, as well as the USA – particularly Washington and New York, will celebrate the New Year at 07:00. The last to greet the New Year will be Samoa – at 13:00 January 1 Kyiv time.

New Year 2026 in Ukraine

Ukraine will celebrate the New Year without loud fireworks and during curfew hours. The police remind that the New Year's night is not an occasion to violate the rules established during martial law. The curfew will remain unchanged, except for air raid alerts during which it is recommended to go to shelters.

The use of pyrotechnics, including fireworks and firecrackers, is prohibited. The National Police notes that violating this rule can lead not only to a fine but also to criminal liability under the article of 'hooliganism', the amount of which can reach 34,000 hryvnias.

To create a festive atmosphere, Ukrainians are advised to use sparklers and party poppers, which are not prohibited.

Thus, during the festive times, Ukraine remains united and adheres to safety. While other countries are already celebrating the New Year, Ukrainians' actions are focused on calmness and responsibility in conditions of heightened danger. This holiday for our country is not only a time for joy but also a reminder that we must adhere to rules for overall safety.