People across the world celebrate the start of 2026, with New York’s iconic Times Square ball descending 18 hours after the South Pacific greeted the new year.

The World Ushers in 2026

The Top Photos For 2025

Years come and go, sometimes before we even realize that time has passed. Events blur and run together. The news is overwhelming, and even those who follow it closely can feel a sense of unremitting vertigo. Such is 21st-century life on a connected and chaotic planet.

LUANG PRABANG, Laos (AP) – The day begins in darkness, lit only by street lamps. As dawn breaks, a pale blue light reveals a quiet line of monks in orange robes moving through the streets of the Lao city of Luang Prabang.

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) – The Associated Press’ most powerful images from Ukraine in 2025 show a nation defined by both unending violence and determined survival.

WASHINGTON (AP) – The World Cup draw determines where teams will play at next year’s soccer tournament between 48 nations that will run from June 11 to July 19.

A vibrant moon will look slightly bigger and brighter Wednesday night during the closest supermoon of the year.