Away from the crowds of the New Year's Eve ball drop in Times Square, New York City typically rings in the new year with fireworks displays from Central Park to Coney Island. But for 2025, some had to cancel or change their plans due to ongoing drought conditions.

On the New York side, Central Park is a classic spot for the show, with the Great Lawn being a popular viewing area and Brooklyn Bridge Park offers incredible views of the fireworks against the Manhattan skyline. Hawaii Department of Transportation officials are investigating an unauthorized message posted on one of its message boards.