New Yorkers, don’t forget to look up this Thanksgiving–NYC’s most iconic skyscraper is getting dressed for the holiday, too! On Thursday, November 27th, the Empire State Building will illuminate its world-famous tower lights in gorgeous autumnal hues to celebrate Thanksgiving, turning the Midtown skyline into what feels like a cozy fall postcard.
According to the Empire State Building, the tower will glow in fall colors–think: rich oranges, golds, and reds–creating the perfect backdrop for anyone heading to Thanksgiving dinner or strolling through Midtown with a hot drink in hand.
Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holiday, it’s one of those simple NYC moments that instantly makes the city feel magical.
When can you see the Thanksgiving tower lights?
As with most Empire State Building lightings, the fall-inspired display will be visible from sunset (4:30 pm on Thursday) until 2 am.
If you’ve got rooftop plans, a window with a view, or you’re planning to walk through Midtown for a post-dinner stroll, you’ll want to time your evening so you can catch the tower shining in these stunning seasonal shades. Just be sure to grab your puffer coat–
And if you’re wondering exactly what the colors mean—or want to know what’s coming up next on the lighting calendar—there’s an easy way to find out in real time.
You can text the ESB to find out what the lights mean
If you’ve ever glanced up at the Empire State Building and thought, “it’s pretty, but…why those colors?” you’re not alone. Luckily, the building has a super handy text message feature that takes all the guesswork out of it.
All you have to do is text the word “CONNECT” to 274-16 and you’ll receive a photo and explanation of the tower’s current light display in real time. It’s perfect if you’re trying to plan the best moment to snap a photo or film an aesthetic video.
You can also find more information about the Empire State Building’s tower lights online, including a full lighting calendar that lists each day’s color scheme and what it represents.
How the Empire State Building’s lights keep NYC glowing year-round
While Thanksgiving’s autumnal colors are extra cozy, the Empire State Building’s tower lights change all the time to celebrate holidays, city events, sports victories, cultural moments, and important causes. The building has shimmered in:
- Green for St. Patrick’s Day
- Rainbow colors for Pride
- Red, black, and green for Juneteenth
- Red, white, and blue for the Fourth of July
- Even blue and white pinstripes to celebrate the Yankees’ home opener
In fact, the building’s exterior lighting system is capable of displaying millions of colors, with special effects, patterns, and animations programmed for different occasions throughout the year. It’s one of the reasons the Empire State Building remains such a defining feature of the NYC skyline—and why it’s regularly named the world’s best attraction.
Whether you’re watching the parade nearby, heading to dinner in Midtown, or just passing through, the Thanksgiving tower lights are an easy way to add a little extra magic to the holiday.
If you’re planning a visit to the ESB soon, you can check out our full guide: Empire State Building: Everything To Know Before You Go.