'Star Trek' 60th anniversary events span screenings and record
Star Trek's 60th anniversary on Sept. 8, 2026, will feature free outdoor screenings, 4K film restorations in more than 750 U.S. theaters, CBS and Nick at Nite TV specials, and a Guinness World Record attempt for the most simultaneous Vulcan salutes in London. Variety reports exclusively that Paramount and partners are rolling out global fan events tied to the Sept. 8, 1966 premiere of the original series.
The milestone marks six decades since Gene Roddenberry's sci-fi saga first aired on television, with in-person screenings, themed TV programming, and merchandise launches spanning early September.
Key Takeaways
- Star Trek's official 60th anniversary date is Sept. 8, commemorating the 1966 premiere of the original series.
- More than 750 U.S. theaters will screen 4K restorations of classic films paired with original-series episodes from Sept. 4–8.
- London's Science Museum will host a Guinness World Record attempt for the most people performing the Vulcan salute at once on Sept. 8.
- TV specials include an Entertainment Tonight archive episode, themed game shows, and a Big Bang Theory marathon on Nick at Nite.
- Partnerships span the European Space Agency, National Park Foundation, LEGO, and a Gene Roddenberry Hollywood star restoration.
When Is Star Trek's 60th Anniversary and Why Does Sept. 8 Matter?
The franchise's landmark anniversary falls on Sept. 8, 2026 — exactly 60 years after Star Trek first premiered on television in 1966. That broadcast launched one of the most enduring sci-fi franchises in history.
Paramount and its partners are treating the date as a worldwide celebration. Screenings and fan activations begin as early as Sept. 1 with product launches and run through New York Comic Con in October.
Where Can Fans Watch Star Trek Screenings and TV Specials?
Los Angeles fans can attend a free outdoor screening at the Autry Museum on Sept. 8 featuring the original-series episode "The Man Trap" and an advance look at the Strange New Worlds episode "Orders of Magnitude," with talent appearances and food trucks.
From Sept. 4 through 8, more than 750 U.S. theaters will present restored 4K versions of classic Star Trek films paired with original-series episodes making their theatrical debut, plus limited-edition Enterprise popcorn vessels and commemorative drink cups.
Entertainment Tonight airs a special ET Vault Unlocked episode on Sept. 7 with archival interviews featuring Gene Roddenberry and cast members. The Price Is Right and Let's Make a Deal will air Star Trek-themed episodes on Sept. 8, with Strange New Worlds stars Rebecca Romijn and Ethan Peck among the guests. Nick at Nite follows with a Big Bang Theory Star Trek marathon from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. ET/PT.
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How Will the Vulcan Salute World Record Attempt Work?
On Sept. 8, the Science Museum in London will host an official Guinness World Records attempt for the most people performing the Vulcan salute simultaneously. The event is part of the museum's free, adults-only Star Trek Lates celebration and ties into a global digital campaign inviting fans worldwide to join the gesture.
Movie Park Germany will also participate during its Sept. 8 Star Trek Day event, featuring live entertainment, cosplay, and the park's Star Trek-themed attraction.
What Other Star Trek 60th Anniversary Events Are Planned?
International activations include a Star Trek takeover at London Underground stations from Sept. 7–8 and themed screenings at Samsung's King's Cross store in partnership with Paramount+. The Roddenberry family will also celebrate a restored Hollywood star plaque for Gene Roddenberry.
ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot will wear the Captain's Delta badge from Strange New Worlds aboard the International Space Station, with orbit content premiering Sept. 8. Product launches include a 1,701-piece LEGO Icons Enterprise bridge set on Sept. 1 and collectibles from Magic: The Gathering and the Royal Mint later in the fall.
Full event details are available at StarTrek.com, as reported by Variety.