Good riddance, 2020! And hello, 2021! The new year started off with a bang thanks to the gorgeous, annual fireworks displays, concerts, and performances from around the world. As the clock struck midnight across the globe, countries, provinces, and regions celebrated a new beginning and bid adieu to the dismal, difficult year that was 2020.
But now, 2021 is officially here, at least in most parts of the world! While the United States might be just a bit behind other countries, Australia’s celebrations are already well underway. Who could forget in years past when the iconic Sydney Opera House came to life with fireworks blazing across the night time sky? Although this year has more safety precautions in place, it wouldn’t feel like a new year without a few fireworks and performances to usher in a new start.
While the fireworks display over Sydney harbor usually kicks off the worldwide New Year celebration, the Pacific island of Tonga was the first island to welcome 2021. At GMT+13, Tonga’s clock struck midnight while the U.S.’s east coast was waking up (6 AM EST.) A cup of coffee and a helping of 2021? That’s the best part of waking up.
Thankfully, the fun in the United States is still going on. Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen are reuniting on CNN for their New Year’s Eve special, while there’s a party happening in New York City with Ryan Seacrest and company. Jennifer Lopez will take to the stage to perform her biggest hits. Other stars like Megan Thee Stallion will ring in 2021 in style and offer a hearty good-bye to 2020. Many families across the country will be celebrating with a smaller group this year, as COVID-19 continues to infect so many people in America. But with a new year comes renewed optimism for a better, brighter future.
Dubai New Year’s Eve Fireworks 2020-2021
— ivan (@ivan8848) December 31, 2020
New Year 2021 Special Fireworks Show Shanghai Disneyland + 5th Anniversary Logo Revealed
— ivan (@ivan8848) December 31, 2020
There’s absolutely nothing like a New Year’s Eve celebration. This year more than any other in recent memory, the world has needed something new and exciting to look forward to. With these gorgeous snapshots from across the globe, it’s clear that everyone was ready to ring in the new year with a lot of hope, gratefulness, and so much more. See more New Year’s Eve celebrations from around the world by checking out the images in the gallery above!
Australia's two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, enter 2021.
Happy New Year Australia!
— ivan (@ivan8848) December 31, 2020
