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Every year on November 11, Veterans Day, we honor the United States Armed Forces that have kept us safe throughout history. And, as is the case with all major happenings, the landmark Empire State Building will shine bright in colors celebrating the important day.
Today, the iconic structure will boast the colors red, white and blue—reminiscent of the United States flag—in remembrance of all those who have served in our armed forces (Memorial Day, on the other hand, honors those who have passed while serving).
You'll be able to glimpse at the shining colors starting sunset (which, today, is at 4:40pm) until around 2am.
Earlier this week, the Empire State Building shined the same colors in connection to Election Day and team USA's World Cup roster reveals and tomorrow night, on November 12, it will turn into a parade of blue, yellow and red to celebrate the Big Apple Circus' 45th anniversary.
Don't forget that, today, you'll also be able to salute the brave men and women who served our country and watch marching bands step in time on Fifth Avenue at the nation's largest Veterans Day Parade, which will be held rain or shine from 12:30 to 3:30pm starting at 26th Street and Fifth Avenue and continuing up to 47th Street.
Officials are expecting close to 20,000 people to participate in the celebration, representing every branch of service and every generation since World War II. Perhaps most memorably, this year's grand marshal is Vincent W. Patton, the first Black Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard, who retired back in 2002 after 30 years of active military service.