New Years Eve 2025
As the world prepares to bid farewell to 2024 and welcome 2025, celebrations across the globe promise to be as vibrant and diverse as ever. From iconic ball drops in New York City’s Times Square to grand firework displays in Sydney, Australia, the world unites in marking the turn of the calendar. However, amidst the festivities, some regions, such as Puerto Rico, face unique challenges, including persistent power outages and infrastructure concerns. This article explores how to watch the biggest New Year specials, weather conditions impacting celebrations, and the broader context of Puerto Rico’s ongoing power crisis.
How to Watch New Year’s Eve Specials
‘A Toast to 2024!’
- Time: 9 p.m. ET
- Channel: NBC
- Hosts: Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager
- Performances: Reba McEntire, Snoop Dogg, George Lopez
This two-hour primetime event marks Hoda Kotb’s final appearance as co-host, adding a sentimental touch to this year’s celebrations.
‘The Day Drinking with Seth Meyers New Year’s Special’
- Time: 11:30 p.m. ET
- Channel: NBC
- Host: Seth Meyers
- Highlights: Best moments from Meyers’ Day Drinking segments with stars like Rihanna and Dua Lipa.
‘Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve’
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- Channel: ABC
- Hosts: Ryan Seacrest, Rita Ora, Dayanara Torres (Puerto Rico)
- Performers: Natasha Bedingfield, Carrie Underwood, Jonas Brothers, T-Pain
Puerto Rico will play a central role in this celebration, with Dayanara Torres co-hosting live from the island. However, concerns over power outages raise questions about whether Puerto Rico’s broadcast will face interruptions.
‘New Year’s Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen’
- Channel: CNN
- Hosts: Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen
- Performers: 50 Cent, Sting, Meghan Trainor, Shania Twain
‘New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash’
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- Channel: CBS
- Hosts: Keith Urban, Rachel Smith
- Performers: Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Post Malone
Weather Challenges on New Year’s Eve
Weather conditions could dampen outdoor celebrations in some regions, particularly in New York City and along the East Coast. Heavy rain is expected to hit New York City during the final hours of 2024, with gusty winds and potential thunderstorms forecasted along the Interstate 95 corridor. Visitors to Times Square are advised to prepare for wet conditions, although umbrellas are prohibited in viewing areas.
In contrast, California faces an entirely different weather threat. Strong Santa Ana winds are expected to increase fire risks, potentially impacting festivities in Southern California.
Puerto Rico: A Spotlight Amidst Power Concerns
While Puerto Rico is set to play a significant role in Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, the island continues to grapple with recurring power outages. Frequent blackouts remain a critical issue, affecting not only daily life but also large-scale events and broadcasts.
Puerto Rico Power Outages: A Persistent Crisis
Puerto Rico’s power grid has struggled to recover fully since Hurricane Maria devastated the island in 2017. Despite federal funding and ongoing repair efforts, outdated infrastructure and mismanagement continue to plague the electrical grid. In December 2024 alone, several significant outages left thousands without electricity, raising concerns about whether the island’s power supply can sustain the demands of live national broadcasts and public celebrations.
Impact on Celebrations
Puerto Rico’s role in Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is not just symbolic but also deeply significant. Dayanara Torres’ presence as a co-host aims to highlight Puerto Rico’s cultural vibrancy and resilience. However, the looming threat of a blackout could disrupt live feeds and performances, casting a shadow over an otherwise celebratory event.
Local authorities have assured that backup generators and contingency plans are in place, but trust in the island’s power management remains low among residents.
Global Celebrations and Time Zones
The global New Year countdown begins in the Pacific. Kiritimati (Christmas Island) in Kiribati is the first to welcome 2025 at 5 a.m. ET, followed by New Zealand, Australia, and various Pacific islands.
- 5:15 a.m. ET: Chatham Islands, New Zealand
- 6 a.m. ET: Most of New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga
- 7 a.m. ET: Fiji, Marshall Islands
- 8 a.m. ET: Sydney, Melbourne, Vanuatu
By the time the ball drops in Times Square, billions worldwide will have already celebrated 2025.
Political and Social Context: A Year in Review
China and Taiwan Tensions
Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed the nation, reiterating China’s stance on Taiwan’s reunification while emphasizing an “upward economic trajectory” for the country.
Syria’s New Chapter
For the first time in over five decades, Syrians will enter the New Year without Assad-family rule, marking a significant political shift in the region.
The Quiz of the Year
For those who love trivia, CNN’s Quiz of the Year challenges participants to recall major events, viral moments, and political changes from 2024. With 52 questions, one for every week of the year, the quiz serves as a fun way to reflect on the past year.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Despite weather challenges and infrastructure issues in places like Puerto Rico, the spirit of celebration remains resilient. Whether through vibrant firework displays in Sydney, the lively streets of Nashville, or the rain-soaked crowds in Times Square, the world remains united in hope and anticipation for a brighter year ahead.
As Puerto Rico navigates its ongoing power crisis, the island’s presence in global celebrations serves as a reminder of both its cultural significance and its struggles. The New Year offers not just a symbolic reset but also a renewed commitment to addressing these persistent challenges.
No matter where you are or how you celebrate, may 2025 bring hope, resilience, and light into every corner of the world.
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