The new year has already arrived in some parts of the world while other regions are making preparations to celebrate the end of 2011 and the beginning of 2012.
Australia, New Zealand were among the first in the world to welcome the new year, and did so with massive fireworks displays over their harbors in Sydney and Auckland.
In Taiwan, more than 100,000 cyclists celebrated the last day of the year marking the nation's 100th anniversary by attempting to break a world record for the largest bicycle parade.
And in New York City, officials have raised the famous crystal ball that drops slowly over Times Square as midnight approaches, signaling the arrival of the new year.
