The Digest:
A breathtaking 13-minute fireworks show, set against the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, launched 2026 celebrations that rippled across time zones, from Tokyo's anime-studded greetings to messages from global leaders.
Key Points:
- Sydney's iconic fireworks commenced the global celebrations under heightened security following recent local tragedies.
- Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese marked the occasion with a simple "Happy New Year, Australia."
- Tokyo celebrated with fireworks, temple bells, and coordinated greetings from anime studios, VTubers, and esports teams.
- The Royal Family in Britain and international celebrities like Thai actor New Thitipoom shared New Year messages.
- Global celebrations blended real-time footage, fan art, and nods to the Chinese zodiac's Year of the Horse.
- The event followed earlier displays in Auckland, where fireworks erupted from the Sky Tower.
- Social media was flooded with well-wishes, including from Indian superstar Jr NTR.
Sources: X (Social Media Reports)
