Seattle's Seafair Torchlight Parade Attracts Near 100,000 Spectators

The annual Seafair Torchlight Parade moved to Seattle’s waterfront along Alaskan Way for its second consecutive year, drawing an estimated 100,000 people. The night‑time procession featured illuminated floats, marching bands, community groups and the Seafair 5K Torch Run, reviving a long‑standing summer tradition.

Organizers and city officials highlighted the event’s logistical scale, noting the need for coordinated street closures, crowd‑control measures and waste management. Local businesses reported a significant boost in sales as hotels, restaurants and retailers benefited from the influx of visitors.

Attendees praised the waterfront venue, with longtime parade-goer Ed Moore noting the added space compared with the former 4th‑Avenue route, and resident Cecelia Phillips expressing enthusiasm for the new setting.