Empire State Building in NYC lit up in green for Eid al-Fitr
The skyscraper has carried out the tradition "for several years now, it is an annual lighting," a building spokeswoman says.
By JPOST.COM STAFFEmpire State Building lit green for Eid al-Fitr holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, July 17, 2015. (photo credit: AFP PHOTO / BRIGITTE DUSSEAU)
Muslims kicked off Eid al-Fitr celebrations on Friday around the world and to mark the holiday one of New York City's most iconic landmarks was lit in green. Eid al-Fitr marks the start of a three-day holiday, that comes after the holy month of Ramadan, as Muslims exchange gifts, visit family and friends and throw elaborate celebrations.The skyscraper was illuminated with the green lights until 2:00 a.m. (EST) on Saturday morning when the building traditionally turns out its lights, AFP reported.The skyscraper has carried out the tradition "for several years now, it is an annual lighting," a building spokeswoman told AFP.The Empire State Building shines different colors for a number of religious holidays and major events: pastel shades for Easter, blue and white for Hanukkah, and red and green for Christmas,red, white and blue for the US women's World Cup victory, rainbow colors for gay Pride Week, and blue, white and purple for World Oceans Day, AFP reported.According to the report the building receives hundreds of requests each year to be lit up in specific colors. It does not accept requests for political campaigns, religious figures and organizations, or personal events.Reuters contributed to this report.