Mayor Adams Announces City Hall, Municipal Buildings to be lit Blue, Yellow, Red, White, and Orange to Commemorate Vesak Celebrations

May 13, 2024

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced that City Hall and several municipal buildings will this evening — for the first time — be lit in the international Buddhist flag colors of blue, yellow, red, white, and orange in recognition of Vesak celebrations, also known as Buddha Day. Vesak — one of the most important Buddhist festivals typically celebrated in May and June — commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha.  

“I extend heartfelt greetings to all those observing Vesak, a sacred celebration that holds deep significance for tens of thousands of New Yorkers,” said Mayor Adams. “Vesak is a time of reflection, compassion, and unity, and as we come together to celebrate, let us reaffirm our commitment to the timeless teachings of peace, understanding, and harmony among all peoples. May this day inspire us to live with kindness and generosity, embodying the teachings of the Buddha in our daily lives. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my warmest wishes to the great diverse community of Buddhist traditions here in the city and around the world. Happy Vesak!” 

In addition to City Hall, the following city buildings and iconic New York City sites will be lit up tonight: 

• Bronx County Courthouse: 851 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10451 
• Brooklyn Borough Hall: 209 Joralemon St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 
• The David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building: 1 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007 
• Queens Borough Hall: 120-55 Queens Blvd, Kew Gardens, NY 11424  
• Staten Island Borough Hall: 10 Richmond Ter, Staten Island, NY 10301 

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