KNOXVILLE, TN (November 4, 2026) – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Visit Knoxville and the City of Knoxville are working together on an exciting exterior lighting project at the Sunsphere, introducing a dynamic new way to showcase the iconic skyline and celebrate the spirit of Knoxville.
Originally constructed for the 1982 World's Fair, the Sunsphere has become one of Knoxville's most recognizable symbols, welcoming visitors from around the world and serving as a source of pride for the local community. The proposed lighting enhancements will build upon that legacy, transforming the landmark into an even more vibrant feature of Knoxville's nighttime skyline.
Phase III of the Sunsphere Project will introduce a modern exterior lighting system designed to highlight the Sunsphere's distinctive architecture while providing flexibility to illuminate the structure in a variety of colors. This follows Phase I, where the Sunsphere’s exterior base was painted to the original PANTONE® color Classic Blue in 2023, and Phase II, where the Sunsphere Welcome Center was built on the third-floor level.
“From reopening in 2022 to our current plans to light the structure in 2027, the Sunsphere has seen some incredible upgrades,” said Kim Bumpas, President of Visit Knoxville. “We at Visit Knoxville are so thrilled to take the lead on enhancing this icon for local and visitor enjoyment alike.”
“The Sunsphere is our city’s most recognizable landmark and lighting it has been something the community has been interested in for quite some time,” said Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon. “I am so excited to work with Visit Knoxville to watch it come to life and literally light up the city’s skyline.”
Beyond enhancing Knoxville’s skyline, the project represents continued investment in the visitor experience and the evolution of the Sunsphere as a destination through use of the Sunsphere Fund. The lighting enhancements will provide new opportunities for photography, community engagement, and memorable experiences for all.
In partnership with L+ARC Lighting Design and architectural firm McCarty Holsaple McCarty, Knoxville is thoughtfully reimagining how the Sunsphere will illuminate the city's skyline. Combining innovative lighting technology with a deep appreciation for the landmark's distinctive architecture, the project will enhance the Sunsphere's visual presence while preserving the historic character that has made it a beloved symbol of Knoxville and Knox County for more than four decades.
Project management meetings and material ordering will begin in November 2026, with installation taking place in 2027. There are no planned closures of the Sunsphere Welcome Center and 4th Floor Observation Deck at this time, and other Sunsphere tenants and nearby businesses should not experience operational impacts.
As Visit Knoxville continues to manage and grow the dedicated Sunsphere Fund through revenue generated by the Sunsphere Observation Deck, this project represents another exciting opportunity to reinvest those funds into one of Knoxville’s most iconic landmarks. Established by Visit Knoxville to support the Sunsphere’s long-term care and enhancement, the fund allows for continued improvements that elevate the visitor experience, create new opportunities for community engagement, and preserve this treasured landmark for generations to come.
Updates will be shared on social media as the project progresses, with an anticipated unveiling in fall 2027. Follow the Sunsphere on Facebook and Instagram. Purchase tickets at sunspheretickets.com.
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ABOUT VISIT KNOXVILLE
Visit Knoxville (Knoxville Convention and Visitors Bureau) is the official CVB for the City of Knoxville and Knox County. Visit Knoxville is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, private company that works together with the community, business leaders, and local and state government to further develop Knoxville as a premier leisure, meetings, and travel destination. Tourism is the second highest grossing industry in the state of Tennessee. Knoxville/Knox County annually produces over $2 billion in travel spending. Visit Knoxville is also home to the VK Sports Commission, the VK Film Office, the Sunsphere Welcome Center & Observation Deck, and the Visitors Center at 301 S. Gay Street. For more information, go to visitknoxville.com and follow on Facebook and Instagram.
