compiled by Wilfred Okiche

Hurray! It’s a new year.

The first day of 2012 was ushered in in different ways by different people around the world. We take a photo trip round the globe and share with you, the magic and wonder that only a new year can bring.

Happy New Year.

Fireworks in Manila’s Rizal park, Philipines.

Fireworks explode from Taipei 101, Taiwan’s tallest skyscraper.

Fireworks light up Beijing’s Temple of heaven.

A Pakistani barber gives a 2012 haircut to a willing customer.

Lady Gaga and New York mayor, Michael Bloomberg at the Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop.

His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI raising the blessed sacrament at the New Year’s Eve Mass.

Children in China hold up lanterns with 2012 written on them.

Malaysia’ landmark Petronas towers reflected in a pool.

Pakistani Christians light candles as they pray for peace.

Spelling 2012 in Manila, capital of Philipine

Outside Sydney’s famous Opera house.

In lake Paranoa, Brasilia, worshipers of the goddess Yemanja gather.

Photo credits:

AFP/Getty images

Reuters

The Guardian UK