Seattle, WA.
This New Year’s Eve, Seattle’s iconic Space Needle will host its 30th annual fireworks
celebration, produced by the Space Needle Corporation. A dazzling tradition, it was first
envisioned and designed by renowned artist and fireworks designer Alberto Navarro in 1994 to
welcome 1995. Now entering its milestone year, this event has become a cherished part of
Seattle’s New Years tradition, captivating hundreds of thousands of viewers live and millions
more via television and social media.
Navarro, originally from Zaragoza, Spain, has been a trailblazer in the pyrotechnics and
multimedia industry since 1990. Known for his breathtaking and innovative displays, Navarro’s
artistry has left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. His unique combination of creative
vision and technical ingenuity brought a groundbreaking concept to life: proving that fireworks
could be launched safely from the complex structure of the Space Needle.
In 1994 Navarro collaborated with the Seattle Fire Department, Pyro Spectaculars, and then
Space Needle Corporation marketing director Kim Kimmy * to develop a revolutionary
approach. By meticulously calculating the lift and fall trajectories of specially designed close-
proximity fireworks, Navarro ensured the event’s safety and success. The result has been a
history-making tradition that continues to awe generations of Seattleites and viewers globally.
Passing the Torch After 30 Memorable Years
As this year’s show approaches, the 30th-anniversary celebration takes on special
significance. It will be Navarro’s final design for the Space Needle fireworks. After three
decades of groundbreaking creativity, Navarro will “pass the torch” to Kevin Gilfillan, the next
generation of pyrotechnic designers at Pyro Spectaculars, leaving behind an unparalleled
legacy of excellence.
“I am honored to have had the opportunity to bring my vision to the Space Needle for the past
30 years,” said Navarro. “When I first flew over the Space Needle while arriving to Seattle
from Spain in 1993 I knew I wanted to do fireworks on this iconic structure. This show has
meant so much to me, and I’m excited to see how the next generation of designers will build
on this foundation to take it even further. I am grateful to Ian Gilfillan and the Pyrospectaculars
team who each year put in an immense effort to deliver the show often under extremely
challenging conditions”
A Celebration of Art, Innovation, and Community
The Space Needle fireworks show remains the most-watched local television broadcast of the
year in Seattle and a beloved community event. This show was in 2001 the first in the world to
be designed with Show Director, a 3D Fireworks simulation software developed by Alberto’s
company Infinity Visions Inc. With Navarro’s final design marking this momentous occasion,
the 2024 New Year’s Eve celebration promises to be an unforgettable farewell to an artist who
has redefined what is possible in the world of fireworks and multimedia displays.
Interview with King5 for the 30Th Anniversary of the Fireworks Show