As the year draws to a close, the anticipation for New Year’s celebrations is building worldwide. It’s that time of reflection, resolutions, and festive cheer. New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are marked by diverse traditions, from the iconic ball drop in New York City to unique customs in different countries.
The countdown has commenced, and with a handful of days left, people around the world are gearing up for festivities. Here’s a glimpse of the countries that will usher in the New Year first and those that will bid farewell to it last.
Which Countries Welcome the New Year First?
The Pacific Islands of Tonga, Samoa, and Kiribati will be the first to embrace the New Year. As the clock strikes midnight, signaling the beginning of January 1, these islands will lead the global celebration. For those in Indian Standard Time (IST), the festivities kick off at 3:30 PM.
Which Country Welcomes the New Year Last?
In the remote Howland and Baker Islands, the New Year will make its grand entrance at 5:30 PM IST. As the uninhabited islands in the Pacific cross into the new year, they will bid adieu to 2023, marking the final moments of global New Year’s celebrations.
As we prepare to welcome 2024, these global traditions and the shared joy of ringing in the New Year connect people across continents.
