SEATTLE — It’s almost time to ring in the new year, which means the Seattle Space Needle’s iconic fireworks and light show is back!
The event features a drone performance that illuminates the Seattle skyline, building to the largest structurally launched firework display in North America, according to The Space Needle. The main show is 18 minutes long with multiple 10-minute pre-shows leading up to midnight.
Alaska Airlines returns as the presenting sponsor for the annual event.
People in Seattle can gather at the International Fountain Lawn and the Fisher Pavilion if they want to watch in person. The Space Needle will offer extended hours on Dec. 31, from 9:30 a.m. through 8:30 p.m.
The Seattle Dept. of Transportation (SDOT) will have the following street closures in place beginning Wednesday evening near the Space Needle for the fireworks show:
5th Ave N southbound between Denny Way and Mercer StreetNorthbound Broad St between Denny and 5th Ave NThomas between 5th Ave N & 6th Ave NTaylor Ave N from Thomas St to Harrison St
“We expect congestion anywhere near the Space Needle and routes getting to and from the area,” said SDOT officials. “We also want to remind people that there are many public transportation options that are free for New Years Eve, including the Seattle Streetcar.”
There are also great places to watch the fireworks from afar, including:
Lake Union (to the north or east)Gasworks ParkKerry Park or other Queen Anne vantage points Beacon HillSeattle waterfront Ella Bailey Park in MagnoliaVolunteer Park on Capitol Hill
The schedule of events on New Year’s Eve for Seattle Center and the Space Needle is:
8:00 PM – Blue Wave Band performance begins (Armory Food & Event Hall)9:00 PM – Fountain of Light DJ & Light Show (International Fountain)10:00 PM – Light-only pre-show (10-minute performance)10:30 PM – Light-only pre-show (10-minute performance)11:00 PM – Light-only pre-show (10-minute performance)11:30 PM – Light-only pre-show (10-minute performance)11:53 PM – Show begins12:00 AM – Happy New Year!12:09 AM – Show ends
ALSO SEE: 26 fun events around Puget Sound to ring in 2026
If you want to watch the Seattle NYE fireworks show on TV, it will be broadcast on KING 5 in Seattle, KGW 8 in Portland, KREM 2 in Spokane, and CW 8.2 in San Diego.
KOMO News will also livestream the firework and drone show on our website and YouTube page starting at 11:53 p.m.
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