8 Countries That Celebrate New Year Before India
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31 December 2025
1.Kiribati (Kiritimati Island): One of the first places on Earth to welcome the New Year, Kiritimati in Kiribati celebrates nearly 7.5 hours before India
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2. New Zealand: Cities like Auckland and Wellington celebrate the New Year 7.5 hours ahead of IST, often with fireworks, music festivals, and Maori cultural events
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3. Fiji: This Pacific island nation welcomes the New Year 6.5 hours before India, with beach parties, family gatherings, and traditional celebrations
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4. Australia (Sydney, Melbourne): Famous for its spectacular Sydney Harbour fireworks, Australia rings in the New Year 5.5 hours before India
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5. Papua New Guinea: Located just north of Australia, it celebrates New Year 4.5 hours before IST, typically with local music and community events
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6. Japan: Japan celebrates New Year 3.5 hours before India, often with temple visits, traditional meals like osechi, and the ringing of bells at midnight
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7. South Korea: South Koreans celebrate similarly early, also 3.5 hours ahead of India, often with fireworks, concerts, and family rituals
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8. China: China marks the Gregorian New Year 2.5 hours before IST, though its major celebration is the Lunar New Year a few weeks later
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