When and Where to Capture the Empire State Building Glowing Blue for Columbia Grads in 2026
The night of May 20, the Empire State Building will shine blue for #Columbia2026 grads. Here’s where to capture the best photos with it.
It’s a Columbia tradition not to be missed: On the night of May 20, from sunset until 2:00 am (EDT), the top of New York’s iconic Empire State Building will light up in blue to honor Columbia’s graduates.
But where is the best spot to capture photos of and with the Empire State Building? For their favorite spots, we asked the experts: previous Columbia grads themselves!
New this year: The Empire State Building invites Columbia students and families to enjoy the iconic history and New York City’s best views from its 86th-floor observation deck for all of graduation week, from May 14 to May 24. Use CUCOMMENCEMENT26 at checkout for 15% off your trip to the top.
And don’t forget! If you aren’t able to be there in person or get out and about to take your pictures, you can always observe the celebration of our grads on the Empire State Building Live Stream.
Over the years, we've found some great spots to take your photos the night of Commencement:
34th Street and 7th Avenue
34th Street and 6th Avenue
34th Street and 5th Avenue
34th Street and Madison Avenue
Bryant Park
5th Avenue, Between 28th and 29th Streets
Top of the Strand, 33 West 37th Street
There are many other rooftops to choose from, including Summit One Vanderbilt, 45 E. 42nd St., and The Skylark, 200 W. 39th St.!
DUMBO, Water & Washington Streets, Brooklyn
Gantry Plaza State Park, Long Island City, Queens
The Empire State Building image® is a registered trademark of ESRT Empire State Building, L.L.C. and is used with permission.