Seattle's Seafair goes mostly virtual for 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions

Seafair is going virtual — again.

Organizers announced the annual Seattle tradition won't have live hydroplane racing, fireworks at Gas Works Park, the Torchlight Parade and the million-dollar Blue Angels flying overhead. Some in-person events will be included.

Seafair spokesperson Patrick Harrison said in a news release that while the state's Phase 3 guidelines allow small and medium-size events, the "Seafair leadership recognizes the guidelines will not support events the scale of a city-wide festival."

Here's how each event will be presented this year:

Fourth of July fireworks

KING 5 will feature a 10 p.m. broadcast of fireworks shows over Lake Union from the past. It will also work as the rollout for this year's events, and for what the organization hopes to do next summer.

Milk Carton Derby

The Greenlake staple will not be happening this year. Contestants are still encouraged to create their milk carton boats at home and enter them online for a chance to win prizes.

Seafair Triathlon (July 25)

This will combine in-person and virtual events "based upon the competitor's comfort level," with the former taking place at Sammamish State Park. More details regarding routes and registration will be available at seafair.org in May.

Torchlight Parade (July-August)

Seafair is expanding the modified version it used last year for the parade. A Seafair caravan will run through nominated neighborhoods each week in July and August.

Torchlight Run (July 31)

Like the triathlon, competitors in the annual 5K can choose a virtual or in-person event. Final details can also be found in May at seafair.org.

Seattle Fleet Week (Aug. 2-6)

This will be fully virtual, with over 100 Fleet Week and Boeing Maritime activities, including interviews with Blue Angel pilots and ship tours.

Boeing Air Show

Another fully virtual event as the Blue Angels flyover will be simulated, not in person — saving over $1 million.

Hydroplane racing

Unfortunately, high-speed boats will not be ripping through Lake Washington this year. Drivers will compete virtually at home and 70-year retrospective will air on KING 5.

"Seafair is eager to bring back events and remains heartbroken fans must limit social gatherings for a second summer," Harrison said. "Seafair is proud to be a part of a community that is taking steps together to ensure future celebrations can occur safely."