Kashmir welcomed 2026 with widespread New Year's Eve celebrations across the valley, including Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam. Despite freezing temperatures, thousands of locals and tourists gathered in public spaces, participating in traditional music and dance. Pahalgam, which had been largely deserted since a terrorist attack in April that killed 26 people, saw a significant resurgence with thousands celebrating. Hotels offered special arrangements, including popular singers and Kashmiri cuisine, to mark the occasion.