Asia Welcomes 2026 with Prayer and Reflection

NZ : As the world transitions into 2026, many of Asia’s most iconic skylines will remain dark. From Jakarta to Hong Kong, major festivities have been scaled back or replaced with cultural programs to honor victims of recent catastrophic events.

A child poses for a photo with a prosperity decoration to welcome 2026 Year of the Horse, following the Chinese zodiac at a shopping district on new year’s eve, in Beijing, Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025.

In Indonesia, the usual fanfare has been replaced by a “calm and reflective” program. The decision comes just one month after devastating floods and landslides in Sumatra claimed more than 1,100 lives.

Governor Pramono Anung confirmed the capital would forgo its usual gala, focusing instead on prayers for the victims.

Mayor Munafri Arifuddin urged residents to forgo parties entirely, stating that “empathy and restraint are more meaningful than fireworks.”

The tourist island cancelled its hallmark concerts, opting for a traditional cultural arts event featuring 65 local dance groups.

Ryan Seacrest and Rita Ora, hosts of “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026”, ahead of the Times Square event.

Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbor—usually the site of one of the world’s most vibrant displays—will not see fireworks this year. The city is still reeling from a massive fire in November that claimed 161 lives. In place of the explosions, the city’s tourism board is hosting a soft rock concert featuring the duo Air Supply. The facades of eight major landmarks will be used as giant countdown clocks for a three-minute light show at midnight.

Elsewhere in the region, age-old traditions will mark the new year.

Japan: Massive crowds are expected at Buddhist temples in Tokyo for the traditional bell-striking ceremony.

South Korea: Thousands will gather at Seoul’s Bosingak Pavilion for the annual bell-tolling and countdown ceremony, a staple of the city’s transition into 2026.