New Year’s Eve celebrations: fireworks and festivities amid global uncertainties

Jubilant crowds ushered in 2023 with the first large gatherings without restrictions in many cities since before the pandemic

Countries around the world welcomed in an uncertain new year amid economic woes, fears of new Covid variations arising in China, and the political backdrop of conflict in Ukraine. Many cities were hosting firework displays and large public gatherings free of restrictions for the first time since the pandemic.

Large crowds in the UK braved cold temperatures, as more than 100,000 people were estimated to have gathered on the Embankment of the River Thames in London for the display at midnight, despite blustery showers.