What Is Manhattanhenge and Why It Happens Twice a Year in New York

Twice a year, New Yorkers get to witness something truly special in the city sky. It’s a spectacle that lights up the streets in a way you don’t see every day, drawing crowds of photographers and curious onlookers alike. This event is known as Manhattanhenge.

So, what exactly is Manhattanhenge? It’s not a holiday or a festival, but a rare moment when the sun sets perfectly aligned with Manhattan’s east-west street grid.

Instead of occurring on the summer solstice, it takes place roughly three weeks before and after it. When the sun lines up just right, its rays flood the streets between the tall buildings with a fiery orange and red glow, creating a scene that looks almost unreal.

The entire city feels as though it’s glowing from within. The name Manhattanhenge might sound familiar, and that’s because it was inspired by Stonehenge, the ancient monument in England famous for its solar alignments during the solstices.

Neil deGrasse Tyson, the well-known astrophysicist and New Yorker, coined the term back in 1997. He saw the similarity between the way the sun aligns with the stones at Stonehenge and how it aligns with Manhattan’s streets.

But here’s the catch: unlike Stonehenge, Manhattan’s street layout wasn’t designed with the sun in mind. The alignment is a happy coincidence. The city planners didn’t plan for this sun show; it just happens naturally, thanks to the grid and the sun’s position at certain times of the year.

Manhattanhenge in 2025 will occur around May 28–29 and July 11–12.

If you’re wondering when you can catch Manhattanhenge in 2025, mark your calendar for two main periods. The first is at the end of May, with the sun aligning perfectly on May 28 at 8:13 p.m., and a slightly different alignment the next day at 8:12 p.m.

If you miss it then, don’t worry—there’s another chance in July on the 11th and 12th. These dates shift a bit each year but generally adhere to the pattern of occurring a few weeks before and after the solstice.

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There’s a bit of science behind what you’ll see during these dates. On May 28 and July 12, half of the sun will be above the horizon while the other half is below, creating a striking image.

On May 29 and July 11, the entire sun appears to hover right between the buildings, making for a stunning, almost cinematic view. This information comes from the Hayden Planetarium, so it’s reliable.

If you want to catch this event in person, some of the best spots are well-known streets that run east to west. Think 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, and 57th Streets. These locations provide clear views of the sunset aligning with the streets, allowing you to experience Manhattanhenge at its best.

Understanding Manhattanhenge

According to Dr. David Baron, an astrophysicist and educator, Manhattanhenge offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of urban design and astronomy. He notes that the event showcases how our built environment interacts with natural phenomena, emphasizing the importance of urban planning that incorporates such celestial events.

Dr. Baron explains that the optimal viewing occurs when the sun is positioned directly at the end of the grid's streets, creating a breathtaking visual effect. This alignment results from the precise orientation of Manhattan's street layout, which was established in the early 19th century.

"Manhattanhenge starts Wednesday. Here's the best time to see it."

One important thing to keep in mind: the weather can make or break the experience. Manhattanhenge needs clear skies to shine—literally.

If it’s cloudy or rainy, the buildings will block the view of the sun, and the entire effect disappears. Unfortunately, rain is expected this week in Manhattan, which means this round might get washed out. But don’t lose hope; the July dates offer another chance to catch the show.

Whether you're a New Yorker or just passing through, Manhattanhenge demonstrates how nature and the city’s layout can align in surprising ways. It transforms ordinary streets into something special and provides a new perspective on the skyline we think we know.

Keep an eye on the calendar and the weather—you won’t want to miss this twice-yearly event.

To fully enjoy Manhattanhenge, experts recommend planning ahead. Urban planners, like those at the NYC Department of City Planning, suggest scouting the best viewing locations beforehand, such as 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, and 50th Streets. Arriving early can help secure a good spot and avoid the crowds.

Additionally, photographers are advised to consider the use of tripods for stability and to experiment with different angles to capture the perfect shot. Engaging with local photography communities can also provide valuable tips and insights, enhancing the overall experience during this fleeting moment.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

As Manhattanhenge approaches, it serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between natural beauty and urban living. Observing such phenomena can foster a deeper appreciation for our surroundings and encourage community engagement. Urban design experts emphasize that events like these can promote tourism and local pride, enhancing the cultural fabric of a city.

In conclusion, understanding the science and planning for optimal viewing can transform a simple sunset into a memorable experience. By embracing these celestial events, New Yorkers can enrich their connection to both the cosmos and their urban environment.