Sofia, Bulgaria — Bulgaria Adopts the Euro:
At midnight on January 1, Bulgaria officially became the 21st member of the euro area, replacing the Bulgarian lev with the euro. The change was met with mixed reactions — celebrations by some citizens and concerns about inflation and national identity by others.
Brussels / Nicosia, EU — Cyprus Assumes EU Council Presidency:
The Republic of Cyprus took over the six-month rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union on January 1, outlining plans to focus on increased strategic autonomy and multilateral cooperation among member states throughout 2026.
Crans-Montana, Switzerland — Deadly Bar Fire at New Year’s Celebration:
A tragic fire at the Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana during New Year celebrations killed dozens of people and injured many more, prompting shock and mourning across the region.
Amsterdam / The Netherlands — New Year’s Violence and Firework Incidents:
New Year’s festivities in parts of the Netherlands were marred by violent incidents and firework-related deaths, with police reporting unrest and fatalities in several cities.
Across Europe — New Year Festivities and Traditions:
Despite some disruptions, many communities welcomed 2026 with traditional celebrations and public events — from cold-weather swims on the Portuguese coast to symbolic civic gatherings reflecting hopes for the year ahead.
Tags: Brussels • Bulgaria • European Council • Inflation • Netherland • Portugal • Switzerland