With each year that passes the fireworks presentations around the world seem to be getting better and better – this past new year’s eve celebrations were no different.

As always Sydney definitely didn’t disappoint. London put up a good show too, nice synchronization and Dubai offered something different.

Check out the videos below or have a look here as and when people update with more videos from around the world. Thanks to Michelle for the links.

One of the photos in yesterday’s collection of photos from Boston.com’s Big Picture publication was of a fireworks display near Big Ben and the London Eye. Below is a awesome 9+ minute video of the fireworks display in London. [via Babis' Weblog]

For more fireworks displays from around the world, check here for more.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xn4GO5H53rw

On the small Greek island of Chios there’s a strange tradition that happens each year over Easter.

Two rival churches have a go at each other, with fireworks. The aim is to hit the opposing Church’s bell tower with their fireworks.

On Easter Sunday evening, as mass is said in both churches, the rival parish “gangs” set to work, lighting fireworks and aiming them haphazardly at each other’s church bells.

Amid the melee, priests in both churches attempt to continue with mass, although the deafening sounds of fireworks and cheers as the rockets hit their targets often drown out the proceedings entirely.

Residents also admit it is not the most safety conscious of ceremonies, with several fires in recent years sparked by rockets and even a few deaths. - source BBC News

These Greeks and their crazy traditions. HOPA! [via DamnCoolPics]