Churches across Ghana will on Wednesday night hold “watch night” services to usher in the New Year.

The December 31 crossover service has become a major religious and social activity, with thousands of worshippers expected to gather in churches across cities, towns and villages.

Many congregations will begin services in the evening, continuing with prayers, sermons and thanksgiving into the early hours of January 1, 2026.

For Christians, the watch night service is a moment of reflection on the outgoing year and a time to seek divine guidance, protection and prosperity for the year ahead.

Hymns, praise and worship sessions, testimonies and special prayers form the core of the observance.

Last year, the Ghana Police Service cautioned pastors and prophets against issuing 31st night prophecies that could create fear or panic.

The Service urged religious leaders to be mindful of public safety and national security, while assuring Ghanaians of adequate security arrangements during the festive period.

Beyond church activities, the New Year will also be welcomed in social settings.

Many people are expected to gather at pubs, hotels, nightclubs and event centres to countdown to midnight with music, food and drinks.

Others will celebrate quietly at home with family and friends, sharing meals and exchanging goodwill messages.

Across the globe, the transition into the New Year is marked by colourful ceremonies and traditions.

In the United States, attention will focus on Times Square in New York City, where thousands gather for the famous ball drop.

As the final seconds of the year are counted down, an illuminated ball descends from a tower, marking the arrival of the New Year amid cheers, music and confetti.

Sydney will be among the first major cities to celebrate, with fireworks lighting up the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Millions are expected to watch the display both in person and around the world.

In the United Kingdom, London will welcome the New Year with fireworks along the River Thames near the London Eye, while similar celebrations take place across Europe, Asia and the Americas.

Cultural traditions vary worldwide.

In Spain, people eat twelve grapes at midnight for good luck, while in parts of Latin America white clothing is worn to symbolise peace and renewal.

In Brazil, crowds gather on beaches-particularly in Rio de Janeiro-for music, dancing and fireworks, with some throwing flowers into the sea as a sign of hope.

As midnight strikes across global time zones on December 31, the world will usher in 2026 with shared optimism for the year ahead.