The Space Needle’s iconic New Year’s celebration will return with a spectacular firework and drone show to welcome the new year. Viewers can watch the event live across several West Coast cities, celebrating the arrival of 2026 with stunning visuals and technological display.
Broadcasts of the event will be available in Seattle on KING 5, in Spokane on KREM 2 News, in Portland on KGW 8, and in San Diego on CW 8.2. The live coverage begins at 11:30 p.m. local time, featuring a large-scale pyrotechnic display combined with an innovative drone show. Bonus coverage is accessible from 11 p.m. through KING 5+, KGW 8+, KREM 2+, and CW 8.2 in San Diego.
Hosts and Broadcast Details
The live broadcast is hosted by a team from KING 5, including Jake Whittenberg, Mimi Jung, Chris Cashman, Kelly Hanson, Shanté Sumpter, and Jose Cedeno. This group will guide viewers through the festivities and provide commentary during the event. KING 5+ can be downloaded for free on smart TVs, facilitating easy access for audiences who wish to stream the event online.
Event Sponsorship and Partnership
Alaska Airlines returns as the presenting sponsor of this major West Coast event. This marks the airline’s second consecutive year sponsoring the New Year’s at the Needle show. Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci highlighted the strategic partnership, stating the collaboration is a natural fit given the airline’s West Coast roots.
Pre-Show Light Displays
Before the main event, the Space Needle will feature a series of 10-minute light shows starting at 10 p.m. These will occur every 30 minutes leading up to the midnight countdown. The light shows provide an immersive visual buildup to the main firework and drone spectacle.
The Main Event: Drones and Fireworks
The highlight begins seven minutes before midnight with an intricate drone display. Approximately 500 drones will create aerial formations that take viewers on a visual journey around the globe, before bringing the show back to the Pacific Northwest theme. Following the drone performance, the event will culminate in the largest structurally launched fireworks show in North America.
How to Watch or Livestream
To watch live, tune in to any of the local broadcasters listed above. For digital viewers, KING 5+ and other channel-specific streaming platforms offer alternatives. Here is a simple guide to accessing the event:
- Choose your local station (KING 5, KREM 2, KGW 8, or CW 8.2).
- Tune in at 11:30 p.m. for the main show or 11 p.m. for bonus content.
- Use streaming apps like KING 5+ for free online access.
- Watch the Space Needle’s live light shows starting at 10 p.m.
Ron Sevart, Space Needle President and CEO, emphasized the event’s significance as a unifying West Coast tradition supported by Alaska Airlines. The celebration continues to showcase innovation and community spirit through its blend of firework artistry and drone technology.
This event promises a unique and memorable way to bring in the new year, with a broad live audience across multiple cities able to enjoy the dazzling display.
Read more at: www.king5.com
