At Thursday night's Pioneer Courthouse Square tree lighting ceremony, Mayor Keith Wilson announced the return of the New Year's Eve Drone Show. With two live drone shows and a large-scale dance party, The Square will be the spot to ring in the New Year. In partnership with Pioneer Courthouse Square, Prosper Portland's Office of Events & Film, and True West Presents, the City of Portland is proud to present a FREE community New Year's Eve celebration in the heart of Downtown.

"I am thrilled that the Square will again host the New Year's Eve Drone Show," said Mayor Keith Wilson. "This family-friendly event in Portland's Living Room is quickly becoming a new downtown Portland tradition, and I want to invite everyone to join us and celebrate the arrival of 2026 and all that a new year has to offer."

There will be two drone displays viewable from The Square, one at 9:00pm and a final countdown drone show to usher in the New Year at midnight. The event will also feature a dance party presented by Video Dance Attack. Food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the event.

"Get ready to ring in the new year right here in the heart of our city!", says Courtney Posey, President of The Square's volunteer Board. "It's fantastic to see everyone coming together again for this vibrant New Year's Eve bash. With great music, dancing, and a contagious spirit of optimism, this family-friendly event is the perfect way to kick off the year ahead."

People attending this year's event are encouraged to take TriMet to The Square or to park smartly at one of the three Smart Park garages adjacent to The Square. TriMet will offer extended public transportation services on December 31. Please see the event run-of-show below:

8 pm - Video Dance Attack Party Begins

9 pm - First Family-Friendly Drone Show Countdown

Midnight - Countdown Drone Show Begins

12:30 am - Party wraps up

While New Year's Eve is a time of celebration, it can also be dangerous on our roads. To help everyone get home safely, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) is offering its Safe Ride Home Program. On Dec. 31, visit PBOT's Safe Ride Home New Year's Eve – Welcome to 2026 website to download an Uber or Lyft coupon for $10 off a ride home. Rides must begin in Portland and are valid from 7 p.m. Dec. 31, 2025 to 4 a.m. Jan. 1, 2026, while supplies last. PBOT also encourages walking or taking public transit, with TriMet and Portland Streetcar offering service that evening.

New Year's Eve Downtown at Pioneer Courthouse Square is made possible by the City of Portland, Prosper Portland, The Office of Events & Film, The Square and True West Presents with additional support from PBOT, TriMet, Smart Park and KGW.

Source: City of Portland

Stacey Lynn