New York "Shines" in Blue and White: Historic Lighting of 16 Landmarks for March 25th

: March 25 2026

Photo: Lighting of the Empire State Building, Greek Independence 2026.

Today, New York shines in blue and white! 16 iconic locations honor the 205th anniversary of 1821 and the enduring friendship between Greece and America.

By: Evageline Plakas

NEW YORK – In a stirring tribute of honor and recognition, the State of New York is transformed today, March 25, 2026, into a vast blue and white canvas. By order of the authorities and in collaboration with local agencies, 16 of the world's most recognizable architectural landmarks are illuminated in the colors of the Greek flag, marking the anniversary of the Greek War of Independence.

Two Revolutions, One Shared Destiny of Freedom

This year’s March 25th is not just another celebration. It carries the weight of a unique historical coincidence:

205 Years since the declaration of the Greek Revolution of 1821.
250 Years since the American Declaration of Independence in 1776.

This "meeting" of the two anniversaries highlights the unbreakable bonds between Greece and the United States. As emphasized in the day's official message, the two nations are united by a shared democratic heritage and the timeless ideals of self-determination and human dignity. From the Hudson Valley to Niagara Falls, New York sends a powerful message that the flame of freedom remains unquenched.

Heading Toward the Great Parade on April 26th

This visual feast serves as the ideal "prelude" to the climax of the celebrations: the Grand Greek Independence Day Parade on 5th Avenue, which will take place on Sunday, April 26, 2026.

As the largest celebration of Hellenism outside of Greece’s borders, the parade by the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York is expected to gather thousands of omogenia members and Philhellenes. This year's event, under the leadership of the parade committee, aims to showcase the strength, unity, and contribution of the Greek-American community.

LONG LIVE GREECE! LONG LIVE HELLENISM!

Photo: Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge: The imposing bridge over the Hudson River (Rockland/Westchester).

From the heart of Manhattan to the Canadian border, New York State honors March 25th.

Below is the full list of landmarks participating in the historic celebration of the 205th anniversary of the Greek Revolution:

In the Heart of New York City (NYC) One World Trade Center: The iconic building in Lower Manhattan
Kosciuszko Bridge: The bridge connecting Brooklyn and Queens.
Grand Central Terminal (Pershing Square Viaduct): The historic arch in front of the central station.
Penn Station (LIRR East End Gateway): The impressive new entrance to the station.
Moynihan Train Hall: The state-of-the-art train hall at Penn Station.
Roosevelt Island Lighthouse: The historic lighthouse at the northern tip of Roosevelt Island.
2. Bridges & Gateway to the North
Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge: The imposing bridge over the Hudson River (Rockland/Westchester).
Mid-Hudson Bridge: The historic suspension bridge in Poughkeepsie.

3. The Capital Albany & Central New York

Empire State Plaza: The state’s administrative center in Albany.
H. Carl McCall SUNY Building: The headquarters of the State University of New York.
New York State Education Building: The majestic Department of Education building.
Alfred E. Smith State Office Building: The historic office skyscraper in Albany.
Albany International Airport Gateway: The main entrance of the international airport.
New York State Fairgrounds: The main gate and expo center (Syracuse).