New York City Welcomes First Baby of 2026 at Midnight

New York City celebrated its first baby of the year as a couple welcomed a baby girl at precisely 12:00 a.m. on January 1, 2026. The birth took place at NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem and marks a joyful moment for parents Oumy Niang and Amadou Niang, who have named their newest daughter yet to be determined.

Weighing in at 7 pounds, 2.8 ounces and measuring 21.26 inches, this is the couple’s fifth child. Oumy and Amadou have a special connection to Harlem Hospital, as three of their previous children were also born there.

Continuing a Tradition of Care

The event highlights the role of New York City’s public health system, which delivers thousands of babies each year. NYC Health + Hospitals operates 11 hospitals across the city, providing comprehensive services for women at every stage of life. These include expert prenatal care, labor and delivery, family planning, and gynecological and primary care.

The public health system’s commitment to maternal health ensures that families receive the support they need during pregnancy and childbirth. This year’s first birth is a reminder of the ongoing dedication of healthcare professionals in the city, who work tirelessly to deliver quality care.

As the Niang family begins this new chapter, they join countless others in celebrating the arrival of a new year and the hope that comes with the birth of a child. The joy experienced by Oumy and Amadou is a reflection of the optimism that many families feel as they welcome new lives into the world.