In a stunning display of solidarity and heritage, sixteen of New York’s most iconic landmarks were illuminated in blue and white this week to commemorate the 205th anniversary of Greek Independence.
The coordinated lighting, which took place on the night of March 25, transformed the city’s skyline into a sea of “Galanolefki.” This annual tradition serves as a powerful visual tribute to the enduring bonds between Greece and the United States—two nations united by the shared revolutionary ideals of freedom and democracy.
New York landmarks honoring Greek Independence
This year’s celebration carries extra weight as it marks a dual milestone: the 205th anniversary of the Hellenic Revolution of 1821 and the approaching 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence.
The landmarks participating in the tribute included:
- One World Trade Center
- The Empire State Building
- The Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
- Niagara Falls (illuminated in solidarity from Upstate NY)
- Grand Central Terminal (Pershing Square Viaduct)
- The Kosciuszko Bridge
A prelude to the Fifth Avenue parade
The illuminations serve as the grand opening for a series of commemorative events organized by the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York. Community leaders and elected officials, including Deputy Senate Leader Michael Gianaris, noted that seeing the landmarks lit up is a deeply moving experience for the hundreds of thousands of Greek-Americans who call New York home.
The festivities will culminate on Sunday, April 26, 2026, with the annual Greek Independence Day Parade on Fifth Avenue. Recognized as the largest celebration of Hellenism outside of Greece, the parade will feature the Presidential Guard (Evzones), traditional dance troupes, and thousands of marchers from across the diaspora.
Related: Trump Honors Greek Independence Day at White House Event
