Space Needle Rings in 2026 With Spectacular New Year’s Fireworks Show
Despite thick fog settling over the city, the Space Needle rang in 2026 with a spectacular edition of its signature New Year’s at the Needle celebration, delivering a dazzling combination of lights and fireworks. The annual event drew audiences across the Pacific Time Zone—from Seattle to San Diego, Portland, and Spokane—while thousands gathered in person at Seattle Center to witness the show firsthand.
As the clock struck midnight, the sky ignited with a powerful burst of light and sound to mark the start of the new year. Standout moments from the celebration included:
As the clock struck midnight, the sky ignited with a powerful burst of light and sound to mark the start of the new year. Standout moments from the celebration included:
- Over 5,000 fireworks launched from the Space Needle, choreographed through more than 1,500 distinct cues, making this the most luminous show to date.
- More than 100 advanced lighting fixtures precisely timed to amplify the intensity of the fireworks display.
- A lively pre-show at Seattle Center featuring live performances by Blue Wave Band, a DJ set, and an immersive light experience.
- A high-energy soundtrack showcasing many of 2025’s biggest artists, including Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez, Kendrick Lamar, and Washington’s own Odesza.
- Alaska Airlines’ return as presenting sponsor, with on-site guests enjoying special giveaways at pop-up booths inside the Armory, including a gumball machine offering prizes to VIP cardholders.
“This is a cherished West Coast tradition, and we’re proud to create it alongside our community,” said Ron Sevart, President and CEO of the Space Needle. “Each year, we’re excited to celebrate the New Year with guests at Seattle Center and viewers throughout the Pacific Time Zone. We’re grateful to Alaska Airlines and the skilled technical teams who help bring this ambitious vision to life.”
The event aired live on KING in Seattle, KREM in Spokane, KGW in Portland, and CW 8.2 in San Diego, with streaming available via KING5+, KGW+, KREM2+, and CBS8+. Audiences in the greater Seattle area also tuned in to a live simulcast of the soundtrack on HITS 106.1.
The event aired live on KING in Seattle, KREM in Spokane, KGW in Portland, and CW 8.2 in San Diego, with streaming available via KING5+, KGW+, KREM2+, and CBS8+. Audiences in the greater Seattle area also tuned in to a live simulcast of the soundtrack on HITS 106.1.
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