

About the Lights at the Plaza
The Empire State Plaza, New York State Capitol, and Alfred E. Smith Building are among several landmarks across the state that illuminate to mark important events and raise awareness.
Launched in December 2021, the LED color-changing lighting system dynamically illuminates the Plaza's architecture with 360 exterior LED lights. This technology is part of a comprehensive lighting project to replace over 95,000 lights at the Plaza with energy-efficient LED fixtures.
Please note: The calendar is updated continually. All dates are subject to change.
Upcoming
Date | Commemoration | Color(s) |
February 7 | National Wear Red Day | Red |
Past
Date | Commemoration | Color(s) |
January 29 | Lunar New Year | Red |
January 28 | New York State Cannabis Sales Milestone | White, Teal, Green |
January 27 | Holocaust Remembrance Day | Yellow |
January 20 | Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day | Red, Black, Green |
January 18 | Stalking Awareness Day | Yellow |
January 9 | National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day | Dark Blue |