Hulhumale' welcomed 2026 with a fireworks display, a drone show and a three‑day Food and Culture Festival at Central Park at midnight on Thursday.
Central Park was packed with families, children and people of all ages who gathered to celebrate the New Year. As the clock struck 00:00, many captured the moment on their phones while a five‑minute fireworks display lit up the sky.
A woman films the fireworks show organized by the government at Hulhumale' Central Park for New Year 2026. (Sun Photo/Moosa Nadheem)
The ‘Pyro Drone’ show also drew strong applause. The performance was based on a story narrated by a child, a detail that organisers said contributed to its warm reception among the crowd. Children’s shouts, laughter and excitement filled the entire area throughout the show.
This year’s Food and Culture Festival, which began on Tuesday evening, is being held over three days, an expansion from last year’s one‑day event. The festival continues to attract large numbers of visitors, reflecting its growing popularity.
Live Boduberu show at Hulhumale' Central Park to mark the 2026 New Year. (Sun Photo/Moosa Nadheem)
Colourful activities and public celebrations are held every year to mark the arrival of the New Year, and this year’s festivities once again drew a strong turnout.