"Budapest welcomed the New Year on Thursday with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the snowy night. Footage shows locals watching from hilltops and vantage points as fireworks exploded in bursts of colour over the Danube. “A very happy New Year to you all, and may you use your mobile phones less in the new year!” said a couple, smiling in the snow. Others joined in with friendly shouts: “Happy New Year, and happy birthday, Hali!” This year's festivities were held under new regulations in Budapest imposed by the Metropolitan Assembly in October. Stricter rules now govern the private use of category 2 and 3 pyrotechnic devices, typically associated with louder noise and more intense visual effects. City officials said the measures aim to balance celebration with public safety, while minimising environmental and social impacts."