2026 Just Started: Why the World is 26 Hours Out of Sync?
The world is welcoming 2026, but not all at once.
While many countries are still preparing for midnight, Kiribati's Line Islands have already stepped into the New Year, thanks to a rare political decision that reshaped the International Date Line decades ago.
As the clock moves westward, fireworks have lit up Auckland's skyline, Sydney has turned celebration into remembrance with a powerful Harbour Bridge tribute, and across Asia, ancient rituals have replaced countdown parties. From Japan's 108 temple bells to wealth-attracting traditions in China and the Philippines, the arrival of 2026 blends culture, resilience, and hope.
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Now, all eyes turn to the Middle East, where Dubai is preparing a record-breaking light display on the Burj Khalifa, while much of the world remains split between two different years.
Why do some nations enter the New Year first?
Celebrations that became symbols of strength
How 2026 is racing across time zones in real time?
Stay with us as the New Year unfolds, one country at a time.
