PARIS, France — Hundreds of thousands of people, with authorities estimating close to one million spectators, gathered along the Champs-Élysées and around the Arc de Triomphe to welcome 2026 with Paris’ iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks display.

As the clock struck midnight, the Arc de Triomphe became the centerpiece of a large-scale light and fireworks show, illuminating the historic avenue and marking the city’s return to one of Europe’s most anticipated New Year celebrations. Crowds filled the famed boulevard hours before midnight, braving the winter cold to secure viewing spots.

While Paris did not stage a large outdoor concert this year, the fireworks and visual projections drew massive attendance, underscoring the enduring appeal of the French capital as a global New Year’s destination. Visitors from across Europe and around the world joined Parisians in celebrating the arrival of 2026.

Security was visibly heightened throughout the area, with police checkpoints, controlled access points, and a strong law enforcement presence to manage the influx of spectators. Public transportation operated extended hours, though heavy congestion was reported in several metro stations immediately after the midnight celebrations as crowds began dispersing.

Despite the packed conditions, the New Year’s Eve event concluded without major incidents, according to local authorities, who praised public cooperation and advance crowd-control measures.

The Paris New Year’s Eve fireworks at the Champs-Élysées has become an annual symbol of unity and renewal, once again placing the city at the center of global celebrations as 2026 begins. – Rappler.com