ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Allentown’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration will look — and sound — a lot different this year.
Instead of fireworks, the city will ring in 2026 with its first-ever drone light show, a custom-designed aerial performance that will illuminate the sky above Seventh and Hamilton streets, according to a news release.
The display, created by Slatington-based StarFlight Drone Shows, will take flight at midnight as part of the Center City celebration, which also will feature the return of the world’s largest puck drop, presented by the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.
“This celebration captures everything that makes Allentown special with innovation and community togetherness,” said Brittney Ciardi, senior vice president of the Allentown Chamber of Commerce.
“We wanted to create something that feels both cutting-edge and true to our traditions. The combination of the drone show and the puck drop will make this a night people remember long after the countdown.”
Environmentally friendly
Drones, or small unmanned aircraft systems being used to create synchronized aerial formations, saw a surge in popularity in 2023 as municipalities considered more environmentally friendly, safer options over fireworks.
Allentown’s event will feature hundreds of drones organizers say will highlight innovation and showcase community pride.
“Downtown Allentown continues to thrive because of the partnerships and people who believe in it,” said Jessica O’Donnell-Gower, executive vice president of the Chambers of Commerce at the GLVCC.
“This event embodies the excitement and momentum we’re seeing across Downtown Allentown: a community that continues to grow, innovate, and come together in meaningful ways.”
Prior to the show, downtown restaurants and venues will host special dinners, live entertainment and champagne toasts.
DJ Menace, DJ Meltdown, and DJ Express also will perform.
The free event will run Tuesday, Dec. 31, from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Seventh and Hamilton streets. According to the release, Seventh Street between Linden and Walnut streets will be closed until the event concludes.
For more information, visit the Allentown Chamber of Commerce on Facebook.
