In a historic first, the Indian Tricolor was hoisted atop Seattle’s iconic Space Needle in the Washington State on August 15, 2025, to mark India’s 79th Independence Day. The Space Needle, built in 1962 for the World Fair and now a defining feature of Seattle’s skyline, symbolizes innovation and the tech-driven spirit of the U.S. Pacific Northwest.

The flag-hoisting ceremony was led by Consul General of India in Seattle, Prakash Gupta, alongside Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and members of the city’s leadership. In remarks shared by the Consulate, dignitaries highlighted the contributions of the Indian American diaspora in shaping Seattle’s rise as a global technology hub.

Following the ceremony, the Consulate hosted a community reception at Kerry Park, offering sweeping views of the skyline with the Space Needle, adorned with India’s flag, forming the backdrop. The event drew a large gathering of the Indian American community.

Prominent U.S. leaders attended the reception, including Congressman Adam Smith (WA-9th District), Chief Justice of the Washington Supreme Court Debra L. Stephens, and Seattle Parks & Recreation Director AP Diaz. Congressman Smith praised the milestone, calling the flag atop the Space Needle a “tribute to the city’s diversity and the strong bonds between India and the Pacific Northwest.”

The celebrations featured a cultural program with renditions of national anthems, a traditional dance performance, and a poetic recital by acclaimed actor and artist Piyush Mishra.

In a wider show of solidarity, King County and the cities of Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue issued official proclamations designating August 15 as “India Day.”

Iconic landmarks across Seattle, including Lumen Field, T-Mobile Park, the Westin, Seattle Great Wheel, and the Space Needle, were illuminated in the colors of the Indian flag.

The Tricolor was also raised at the Tacoma Dome, Tacoma City Hall, and the headquarters of the Tacoma Police and Fire Departments.

India established its sixth U.S. Consulate in Seattle in November 2023, and the mission has since worked to strengthen ties with the Pacific Northwest region. 

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