World peace, health, happiness and cherishing loved ones were among the most common New Year wishes voiced by revellers who gathered in Central on Wednesday evening preparing to ring in 2026.

Many people who flocked to the area for the New Year's Eve countdown said they enjoyed the festive atmosphere, despite the absence of fireworks this year.

The customary fireworks display was cancelled out of respect for the victims of last month’s deadly blaze at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po.

Instead, the Tourism Board organised a live music and light show on Chater Road.

Many people told RTHK that the Wang Fuk Court fire was the year’s most memorable and tragic event.

“I hope there won’t be many disasters in the new year. I also wish for world peace,” said a woman surnamed Mui.

“The fire towards the end of the year was most memorable and heartbreaking... I also know someone who was affected.

“We should cherish the people around us, you never know what will happen tomorrow.”

Another reveller, a woman surnamed Cheung, spoke about peace.

“My New Year’s wish is world peace. With peace comes happiness.

“And I hope China prospers, because when the country does well, our lives will be better.”

Visitors from the mainland and overseas were also among those who gathered in Central to soak in the holiday spirit.

“The atmosphere here is fantastic. Hong Kong feels more open and there are so many decorations, we really like it,” said a woman surnamed Lei from Zhejiang.

“We celebrated in Hangzhou last year, so this year we chose Hong Kong. We booked a hotel, and it turned out the countdown event was right below us. It’s really a surprise!”

Another mainland visitor said she would spend five days in the city with her boyfriend.

“I love Hong Kong from the bottom of my heart. So many people come together, and everyone looks happy and close. The streets are lively, and the atmosphere is just so vibrant,” she said.

At the stroke of midnight, eight landmarks in Central, including the Court of Final Appeal and HSBC headquarters, will participate in the three-minute light show themed "New Hopes, New Beginnings".

Their facades will be transformed into giant countdown clocks 20 seconds before midnight.