In a historic moment, the Indian tricolor was raised at the Seattle Space Needle on Independence Day, marking a first when the country's national flag was displayed at the landmark. The 605 ft height tower is one of the most noticeable structures in Seattle, which reflects the tech-led future of the US Pacific Northwest region.
A video of the moment was shared online by the Indian Consulate in Seattle, posting, "A historic first in Seattle! India's tricolor soars the Seattle skyline. Happy 79th Independence Day of India."
— India In Seattle (@IndiainSeattle) August 16, 2025
During the proud and historic moment, the Consul General of India in Seattle, Prakash Gupta, Seattle Mayor Bruce Herell, and other city leaders were present at the Space Needle. They appreciated the role of the Indian diaspora in shaping Seattle as a growing tech hub in the US Pacific Northwest region.
The Consul General of India, Prakash Gupta, also shared a post on social media, writing, "There is no greater honor than hoisting the Tiranga atop Seattle's Space Needle. Jai Hind! Wishing everyone a Happy Independence Day."
The Indian consulate also hosted a community reception at Seattle's Kerry Park, which faces the city's skyline. As the tricolor trailed in the sky atop the Space Needle, several members of the Indian American community gathered to witness the historic moment.
The community reception at Kerry Park was attended by US dignitaries, including Congressman Adam Smith, Washington Supreme Court Chief Justice Debra L. Stephens, Seattle Port Commissioner Sam Cho, along with Seattle Parks & Recreation Director AP Diaz.
Addressing the event, Congressman Smith stated that the hoisting of the Indian tricolor atop Seattle's Space Needle was a tribute to the rich diversity of the region and reflected the strong ties between India and the Pacific Northwest.
As a special gesture towards India's 79th Independence Day, King County, which has 39 cities, along with Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue, issued special proclamations declaring August 15 as India Day.
Not only the Space Needle, but several iconic buildings, such as Lumen Field, T-Mobile Park, the Westin, and the Seattle Great Wheel, were illuminated in colors of the Indian tricolor. The Indian National Flag was also raised at the Tacoma Dome, Tacoma City Hall, and the Tacoma Police and Fire Departments' headquarters.
By November 2023, India had opened its sixth consulate in Seattle, strengthening its engagement in the US Pacific Northwest.