There’s no doubt that Seattle is one of the best places in the country to celebrate New Year’s Eve. The only question is, how should you spend New Year’s Eve in Seattle when there are so many options?
From what’s often ranked among the country’s top fireworks displays to cruises, dinners, and dance parties, what will you do? To help you out, we’ve rounded up the best ways to say farewell to 2025 and welcome in 2026.
Whether you’re a local or traveling on the fast and scenic ferry from Victoria, B.C., you’ll want to make your plans now for an epic New Year’s Eve in Seattle.
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1. New Year’s at the Space Needle
The crown jewel of New Year’s Eve in Seattle takes place at the Seattle Center and it won’t cost you a thing. Last year, viewers were wowed when the largest largest structurally launched pyrotechnic display and a thrilling flight of 500 drones.
You can expect more of the same for ringing in 2026, with the countdown leading up to midnight and drone shows preceding the fireworks. Watch from Seattle Center, Gas Works Park, Kerry Park, Alki Beach, or even from the water on an Argosy Cruise for a unique perspective.
2. International Fountain Dance Party
Get to the Seattle Center early to enjoy even more free entertainment. The Armory will host the Pacific Northwest’s own Blue Wave Band starting at 8 p.m. followed by the Fountain of Light Show at the International Fountain. Get up on your feet and dance to the rhythms of DJ Arson Nicki! A video artist will be projecting imagery onto the fountain waters starting at 10 p.m., providing plenty of fun before the midnight show.
3. Seattle Symphony Concert & Party
For a slightly mellower celebration without the big crowds, join the Seattle Symphony and The Hot Sardines at Benaroya Hall. This is an event where you’ll want to dress to impress. Right after the concert, join the jazz revival party – it includes Samuel & Althea Stroum Grand Lobby with dancing, champagne, a count down, and more. There’s even free swing dance instruction to help you get up on your feet!
4. WRG Presents NYE 2026 Gala
The White Rabbit Group is hosting a themed gala where EDM Futurism, cyberpunk couture meet the rave. Furthermore, it comes complete with the PNW’s biggest balloon drop for an unforgettable way to kick off 2026. All the fun takes place at Magnuson Park Hangar 30.
5. Roaring 20s NYE at Hotel Sorrento
How about a Roaring ’20s NYE at Hotel Sorrento? It brings all the glamour of the era, seven floors above First Hill. From there, you’ll have a stunning view of the city skyline for enjoying this champagne-fueled celebration. Look forward to a welcome glass of champagne to kick things off, followed by live music, dancing, cocktails, and of course, the countdown to midnight! Your evening’s guests include Tiffany Wilson & her band along with performances by Ruby Mimosa and Shawn Schlogel.
6. Reverie Ballroom NYE Bash
If you’re more into blues, zouk, slow lindy, and kizomba, head to the Reverie Ballroom! The NYE Bash will be a night of revelry and dancing through the wee hours of the morning with a special midnight celebration. An 18+ event, it’s an intimate soiree where you can dance with anyone or everyone who shows up.
7. Fireworks Cruise
While we touched on the Argosy Cruises’ 21+ cruise for watching the Space Needle fireworks, it offers more than just taking in the spectacular show. Enjoy magnificent views of the Seattle skyline, a DJ for music and dancing, and a full-service bar with plenty of champagne for toasting too.
Waterways Cruises is another 21+ event to consider. You’ll have views of the colorful fireworks display while enjoying a DJ for dancing, specialty appetizers, desserts, and a midnight champagne toast.
8. A NYE of Laughs at Laughs Comedy Club
Want to end the year with a lot of laughs? Head to Laughs Comedy Club for a night of comedy and a champagne toast. SiriusXM’s Top Comic, Matt O’Brien will be the starring act, while guest comedians include Mandy Simonson, Doris DeSouza, Min Lin, and Abraham Tadesse.
9. NYE Black & White Ball at Timewarp
Timewarp will host a legendary NYE party! Moreover, this is another opportunity to dress to the nines. Don your finest black and white, and look forward to dancing to house DJs and a midnight champagne toast.
10. Pier 57 & Waterfront Park Celebrations
For a family-friendly celebration, head to Pier 57 and Waterfront Park. The two combine, emerging as vibrant hubs for a festive celebration. There will be live music, food vendors, and entertainment. Plus, with the iconic Great Wheel illuminated, it makes for a breathtaking backdrop for viewing the midnight fireworks.
11. Four Seasons NYE Bash
Ring in the New Year in style at Goldfinch Tavern, renowned for its breathtaking Puget Sound views and its delectable dishes. Choose from a three-course menu at the first seating, or four courses at the second. Dishes are prepared by talented Chef Jeffrey Hunter, with optional wine pairings available. Live music and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight are included too. Not to mention, if you stay in one of the hotel’s opulent rooms, you can practically fall right into your luxurious bed afterward.
12. Crawl ‘Til The Ball Falls: Seattle NYE Bar Crawl
Can’t decide where to celebrate? The Barcrawlerz will take over Seattle once again for a memorable NYE Ball Crawl. Takeadvantage of some of the best drink specials at the most popular bars in the city. That includes everything from the Blarney Stone and Kells Irish Bar to Pike Pub, Imperial Kitchen & Bar, and Jupiter Bar.
13. Bootleg & Bubbles at Smith Tower NYE
A NYE celebration at the top, the very top of one of the most iconic landmarks in Seattle that is, means 360-degree views and a stylish night of revelry. This year’s event is all about Bootleg & Bubbles. You’ll step into the glamorous golden age to toast to 2026, complete with Moët champagne. Dancing to live DJ tunes, hors d’ oeuvres, an open bar, a buffet, party favors, and a midnight champagne toast are all part of the experience.
14. W Seattle’s Posh Affair
The W Seattle will host one of Emerald City’s poshest events. Step inside to discover two floors of music in the Living Rom and Great Room. There will be party favors, top DJs, a prepaid bar, and a coundown celebration. VIP Hotel Room Packages are available – and, for the “ULTRA POSH,” VVIP Table Packages.
15. Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns
For families who want to celebrate with the kids, consider doing so among the enchanting glow of the holidays at Woodland Park Zoo’s WildLanterns event. The magnificent lantern displays create a magical atmosphere, while interactive exhibits, live entertainment, and seasonal treats, complete the picture, making it a fun NYE out for all ages.
Whether you’re coming from near or far, there are few better places to embrace the saying, “Out with the old, in with the new,” than Seattle.
