Space Needle Fireworks Show Is Going Virtual For New Years

Event organizers said there will be no fireworks again to welcome 2021 at the Space Needle at the end of the year.

KOMO reported that the annual show will be going virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic, like many other events across the nation. Organizers said there will be a new display featuring "striking visuals in a wondrous display of digital effects, engineered to bring viewers bigger thrills than ever before. Using sky-mapping technology and real video footage, the Space Needle will be layered with immersive, digital artistic expressions to create an illusion of color and wonder."

Viewers can watch it on TV or online -- a likely move to minimize crowds and gatherings. West Coast states have renewed restrictions and shutdowns to curb the spread of coronavirus in their respective areas. Reporters said the show was designed and developed by group who brought the digital BOREALIS show to Seattle's Museum of History and Industry in 2018.

Seattle residents had to usher in 2020 without fireworks atop the Needle due to 38 to 44 mph winds potentially creating safety hazards. That was the first time in nearly three decades the annual tradition was canceled. There was a laser show instead.

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