UAF to host New Year’s Eve Sparktacular fireworks display

December 17, 2020

UAF photo by Todd Paris. Fireworks explode above West Ridge in 2013. UAF will host the 31st annual Sparktacular fireworks display at 8 p.m. on New Year's Eve.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks will host the Fairbanks Curling Lions’ 31st annual Sparktacular celebration on Thursday, Dec. 31. Fireworks will be launched from UAF’s West Ridge starting at 8 p.m.

Due to COVID-19 precautions, most UAF buildings will be closed during the fireworks display. Masks are required indoors on campus and must be worn outdoors when social distancing is not possible.

University fire and police departments will begin closing roads and ski trails near the staging area at about 7 p.m. Alaska Railroad trains travel through the area, and pedestrians and snowmachine riders are asked to stay clear of the tracks. Personal fireworks, drones and sky lanterns are prohibited.

A map of the Sparktacular site is available here.

The Sparktacular event is organized by Mike Thomas, owner of University Chevron. It is sponsored by the following Fairbanks community groups and businesses:

University Chevron

Dunlap Insurance Agency

Napa Auto Parts

University of Alaska Fairbanks

KTVF Channel 11

KXDF CBS 13

KFXF Channel 7

Mt. McKinley Bank

Sani-Can, Inc.

Interior Towing and Salvage

Napa AutoCare Centers

Gas & Diesel Doctor

Playwright Marketing

The Spur

Monkey Wrench Mechanical

Interior Baseball Lions