The Empire State Building (ESB) will celebrate Eid al-Fitr on Sunday, May 24, 2020, with a tower lighting in green – a colour that symbolizes peace and purity in Islam – along with ESB’s signature “Heartbeat of New York” effect. This special tribute commemorates the end of the holy month of Ramadan, embodies the enduring spirit and joyous festivities taking place around the globe, and raises awareness to the impact of the global Covid-19 pandemic.
Eid-al-Fitr, or “the Festival of Fast-Breaking,” marks the conclusion of a month-long spiritual renewal for the global Muslim community. During Ramadan, Muslims around the world traditionally observe a strict fast from sunrise until sunset, participate in prayer, and gather together as friends and family to break their fast and share in acts of kindness.
This year gratitude and appreciation are more important than ever as Muslims worldwide have experienced a Ramadan amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The heartbeat signature effect for Eid al-Fitr is meant not just to celebrate the holiday, but to also recognize Muslims in their shared global battle against the illness; and to extend wishes for health, peace, and connectivity during these unprecedented times.
Additionally, the Empire State Building will sparkle on the hour in yellow, blue, silver, red, white, and green in honour of first responders. A five-minute moment of darkness will be held in honour of those everywhere, who have lost their lives in the pandemic as well as those who grieve for them.
Soaring 1,454 feet above Midtown Manhattan (from base to antenna top), the Empire State Building, owned by Empire State Realty Trust, Inc., is the “World’s Most Famous Building.” With new investments in energy efficiency, infrastructure, public areas and amenities, the Empire State Building has attracted first-rate tenants in a diverse array of industries from around the world. The Empire State Building was named the world’s most popular travel destination in a study conducted by Uber and was named America’s favourite building in a poll conducted by the American Institute of Architects.
