Pakistan lights up New Year 2026 with fireworks and folk music

Five individuals were injured in separate incidents of aerial firing in Karachi

Celebrations marked the beginning of 2026 across Pakistan as people welcomed the New Year with fireworks, music and public gatherings in major cities following festivities around the world.

In Karachi, the country’s largest city, the Sindh Governor House hosted a spectacular New Year’s celebration, attracting thousands of citizens, including women, youth, and children of all ages. The event featured the longest fireworks display ever recorded at the venue.

The ceremony began with a recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem and patriotic slogans of “Pakistan Zindabad”, energizing the crowd.

In a video address, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori reflected on 2025, calling it a year of military, diplomatic, and economic achievements for Pakistan.

He highlighted that Pakistan remained in the global spotlight throughout the year and praised the U-19 cricket team for defeating India in the recent Asia Cup final, calling it a gift to the nation that would be remembered for life.

Read: Karachi bans pillion riding, limits fireworks on New Year’s Eve

Tessori further expressed gratitude to the armed forces and prayed for the defeat of conspirators and anti-state elements, hoping they face their just end in 2026 as a warning to others.

Addressing the public, the governor thanked the people of Karachi and the entire Sindh province for participating in Governor House events, saying their presence had been a source of encouragement.

He assured that larger programmes and enhanced welfare initiatives are planned for 2026 and reaffirmed that the doors of Governor House will remain open to the public.

As the clock struck midnight, the air resounded with cries of “Pakistan Zindabad”, followed by a mesmerising fireworks display that lit up the night sky, captivating all attendees.

Separately, Mayor Murtaza Wahab also attended a musical night at Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim, where fireworks were planned for midnight. The mayor arrived at the venue on Thursday to participate in an event celebrating the spirit of renowned Sufi saint Lal Shahbaz Qalandar.

During the programme, Wahab requested a Qalandari dhamaal performance in honour of the saint. Singers presented folk music in various regional languages, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity. Organisers said a fireworks display near the beach would take place at midnight, adding that all arrangements for the spectacle had been completed.

Read: World toasts end of 2025 amid Trump tariffs, Gaza truce

The event aimed to blend New Year celebrations with cultural festivities, offering entertainment while promoting traditional Sufi music and performances.

In Lahore, Liberty Chowk hosted a large-scale fireworks display organised by the Punjab government. A significant number of citizens gathered to witness the show, while police personnel and traffic wardens were deployed to maintain security and manage crowds.

Large crowds, including women and children, also gathered along Mall Road on New Year’s Eve to welcome 2026. Authorities ensured that the main carriageway remained clear, with citizens restricted to sidewalks to prevent disruption and ensure safety.

Churches along Mall Road rang their bells at midnight to mark the start of the New Year, adding to the festive atmosphere. Residents were seen celebrating enthusiastically as the year began.

Read More: Rawalpindi police tighten security for New Year celebrations

Meanwhile, two individuals were injured in separate incidents of aerial firing in Chanesar Goth and Goli Mar Haji Mirad Goth, Karachi.

In separate incidents, two individuals were also injured by bullets from unknown sources at Five Star Chowrangi and Korangi No. 3, according to Edhi authorities.

A man was also injured by a stray bullet near the New Vegetable Market, authorities from Chhipa Rescue reported. All injured were provided medical assistance and transported to nearby hospitals.

Authorities have called for calm and urged residents to refrain from firing weapons during celebrations.