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Chinese Cities Cancel New Year Countdown Events for Safety

1/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Police in several Chinese cities have announced that countdowns will not occur at landmarks to ensure safety.
The decision follows a pattern from prior years to prevent incidents like the 2014 Shanghai stampede.
Authorities in Guangzhou and Dongguan have cancelled large-scale events and warned against spreading rumors of fireworks displays.
In Xian, the Bell and Drum Tower area will not host any countdowns or related activities.

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Story summary

Police in several Chinese cities have announced that countdowns will not occur at landmarks to ensure safety.
The decision follows a pattern from prior years to prevent incidents like the 2014 Shanghai stampede.
Authorities in Guangzhou and Dongguan have cancelled large-scale events and warned against spreading rumors of fireworks displays.
In Xian, the Bell and Drum Tower area will not host any countdowns or related activities.