New Zealand, Australia, and surrounding Pacific Islands were among the first places to ring in 2018 with fireworks displays, parties, and other festivities. Nearly 1.5 million people gathered to watch a rainbow fireworks display above Sydney's iconic Harbour Bridge and opera house.
New Year Celebrations Around the World

1
People celebrate as confetti falls down after the countdown to midnight in Times Square, Jan. 1, 2018, in New York.

2
Fireworks light up the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House during new year celebrations on Sydney Harbour, Australia, Jan. 1, 2018.

3
Residents in fox masks participate in the Oji Fox parade to thank the outgoing and welcome the incoming year at the Oji Inari shrine in Tokyo, Japan, Jan. 1, 2018.

4
Fireworks explode over Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre to celebrate the New Year, Jan. 1, 2018.