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New York’s most photogenic light show is back—kind of. This weekend brings Reverse Manhattanhenge, the sunrise sibling of the famous sunset spectacle, when the rising sun lines up perfectly with Manhattan’s street grid and turns everyday intersections into glowing corridors. This particular variation lasts just minutes and happens only twice a year.
Here’s your guide to catching it:
What exactly is Manhattanhenge?
Manhattanhenge occurs when the sun aligns with the city’s east–west streets, thanks to the grid being tilted about 30 degrees off true east-west. Most people know the sunset version that hits in late spring and midsummer—but the same magic happens at sunrise in winter and that’s what’s rolling through this weekend.
What time should you go?
Set those alarms. Reverse Manhattanhenge appears on Sunday, January 11, and Monday, January 12, at around 7:15am both mornings. The alignment only lasts a couple of minutes and the weather is always the wildcard. Early forecasts suggest clouds on Sunday and clearer skies on Monday, so if you’re choosing just one morning, Monday may be your best bet.
Where’s the best place to catch it?
You want a major Manhattan cross street with a clean view toward the horizon. These are the classic go-to spots:
- 57th Street
- 42nd Street
- 34th Street
- 23rd Street
- 14th Street
- Tudor City Overpass
- Hunter’s Point South Park in Long Island City
For the sunrise version, views generally improve the farther west you go. While they’re often more crowded, 34th and 42nd Streets get bonus points for Empire State and Chrysler Building cameos.
How long does it last?
Blink and you’ll miss it. The alignment usually holds for one to two minutes; it’s just long enough for a few photos, but not long enough to show up late.
When’s the next one?
The next classic sunset Manhattanhenge arrives in late spring:
- May 28 (half sun)
- May 29 (full sun), with encore dates in mid-July.
But for now, this is your shot at the rare, early-morning edition.