In a historic moment for the Indian diaspora and a testament to the growing relationship between India and the United States, the Indian tricolor was hoisted atop Seattle's iconic Space Needle on August 15, 2025, marking India's 79th Independence Day. This is the first time that any foreign nation's flag has been raised on the landmark.

The 605-feet-tall Space Needle, a symbol of Seattle's skyline and the tech-driven future of the US Pacific Northwest, served as the backdrop for this unprecedented celebration. The event was attended by Consul General of India in Seattle Prakash Gupta, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, and other dignitaries from the city's leadership, highlighting the significance of the occasion.

The Consulate General of India in Seattle emphasized the importance of the event, noting that it underscored the contributions of the Indian-American diaspora in shaping Seattle into a prominent tech hub. Consul General Prakash Gupta expressed his pride, stating, "No greater honour than this! Raising the Tiranga on top of Seattle skyline at Space Needle".

The celebrations extended beyond the flag hoisting, featuring a cultural program that showcased the diversity of Indian art forms with national anthems and dance performances. A reception was later held at Kerry Park, offering attendees a scenic view of the Space Needle adorned with the Indian flag.

Several US dignitaries were present at the Kerry Park reception, including U.S. Congressman Adam Smith, Chief Justice of the Washington Supreme Court Debra L. Stephens, Seattle Port Commissioner Sam Cho, and Superintendent/Director of Seattle Parks & Recreation AP Diaz. Congressman Smith welcomed the celebration, noting that the Indian Tricolour hoisted atop the Space Needle is a tribute to the region's diversity and the strong bonds between India and the Pacific Northwest.

In a special gesture, King County, along with Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue, issued official proclamations declaring August 15 as India Day. Furthermore, several iconic buildings in Seattle, including Lumen Stadium, T-Mobile Stadium, the Westin, and the Seattle Great Wheel, were illuminated in the colors of the Indian tricolor. The Indian flag was also hoisted at the Tacoma Dome, Tacoma City Hall, and the headquarters of the Tacoma Police and Fire Departments.

The event signifies the strengthening ties between India and the US Pacific Northwest, especially after India opened its sixth consulate in Seattle in November 2023. This historic flag hoisting at the Space Needle is a proud moment for the Indian diaspora and a symbol of the growing international relationship between the two countries.