Sixty Years Boldly: In 2026, the Star Trek franchise will celebrate its 60th anniversary with a year-long, fan-focused event, marking six decades since the original series premiered on September 8, 1966. According to a press release cited by multiple sources, Paramount, CBS Studios, and Skydance are planning a wide array of activities, content, and partnerships to engage both dedicated “Trekkies” and new audiences, reinforcing Star Trek’s enduring legacy. The celebration, which was unveiled on Star Trek Day 2025, aims to honor Gene Roddenberry’s creation and its themes of hope, inclusivity, exploration, and unity.
A Year of Celebrations
The 60th-anniversary festivities will commence on January 1, 2026, with a Star Trek-themed float in the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. The float will highlight the franchise’s core values and spotlight the upcoming series, “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.” The celebration includes both in-person events and digital initiatives, ensuring broad accessibility for fans worldwide. The official anniversary website, StarTrek60.com, will serve as a central hub for information on all activities, partnerships, and fan opportunities throughout the year.
Star Trek: The Cruise IX
One of the major highlights for fans will be Star Trek: The Cruise IX, scheduled from February 20 to 27, 2026. According to Entertainment Cruise Productions, this “un-conventional voyage” aboard Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas will depart from Port Canaveral, with stops in Puerto Plata, San Juan, and CocoCay. The cruise will feature appearances by Star Trek actors, including William Shatner, Walter Koenig, Jonathan Frakes, Marina Sirtis, John de Lancie, and over 20 other performers from across the Star Trek universe. The event promises a week of immersive experiences and activities for attendees, as reported by the Daily Sitka Sentinel and Powell River Peak.
New Content and Digital Engagement
The 60th anniversary will also introduce a wave of new content. The live-action series, “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy,” starring Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake and Paul Giamatti as Nus Braka, is expected to premiere on Paramount+ in early 2026, according to Deadline. Additionally, season 4 of “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” is also anticipated to debut in 2026 as part of the celebrations. The franchise launched new digital initiatives on Star Trek Day 2025, including “Star Trek: Scouts,” an animated YouTube series, and “Star Trek: Khan,” a scripted podcast exploring untold events on Ceti Alpha V.
Expanding Digital Presence
Digital engagement will be further enhanced with the launch of StarTrek60.com, providing a central platform for all anniversary-related information and activities. According to StarTrek.com, the franchise is also expanding its digital comic presence through a partnership with WEBTOON, aiming to connect with new audiences through original stories. These digital initiatives are designed to make the celebration accessible to fans globally, fostering a sense of community and shared excitement.
Collaborations and Partnerships
The anniversary celebrations extend to new collaborations, including a partnership with the Lego Group for new Star Trek-themed sets, as reported by Collider. Star Trek will also team up with DoSomething, a national organization for youth leadership and service, for the “Boldly Go Green” campaign in 2026. This campaign, as noted by Screen Rant, will focus on environmental impact in multiple locations, aligning with the franchise’s message of hope and a better future.
ST:LV 60th Anniversary Trek to Vegas
The renowned fan convention, ST:LV 60th Anniversary Trek to Vegas, organized by Creation Entertainment, is scheduled for August 2026. This event promises to be another landmark gathering for fans, offering a variety of panels, autograph sessions, and other activities. According to Creation Entertainment, this convention will be a central part of the anniversary celebrations, providing fans with an opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and celebrate their shared love for Star Trek.
A Lasting Legacy
The comprehensive plans for the Star Trek 60th anniversary demonstrate a commitment to the franchise’s future, orchestrated by Paramount, CBS Studios, and Skydance. The year-long festivities, detailed by the Washington Times and other sources, are a testament to the enduring legacy of Gene Roddenberry’s creation, aiming to celebrate six decades of a cultural phenomenon that continues to inspire hope, exploration, and unity across generations. This milestone event promises to be a significant moment for Star Trek fans worldwide, solidifying the franchise’s place in popular culture.
