The Empire State Building’s decision to illuminate in green and white to honor the Philadelphia Eagles’ NFC Championship win on Sunday has sparked controversy in New York.
The Eagles’ 31-7 victory over the San Francisco 49ers secured their spot in the Super Bowl for the first time since 2018, prompting the iconic building to mark the occasion with themed lights.
Given the intense rivalry between the Eagles and the New York Giants—whom the Eagles had defeated in the NFL Playoffs—many New Yorkers were taken aback.
ESPN’s Mina Kimes and Giants running back Matt Breida voiced their skepticism, while New York City councilman Keith Powers, a staunch Giants supporter, criticized the move as “absolutely ridiculous.” The Giants’ official Twitter account also noted the uproar with a comment, “I’m just here for the comments.”
The Empire State Building, which saw nearly 30 million views on its original tweet, later defended its decision, stating the color change “hurt us more than it hurt you” while also responding to criticism with a bit of humor.
The building subsequently lit up in red to celebrate the Kansas City Chiefs’ AFC Championship win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, Eagles fans celebrated exuberantly.
Crowds filled the streets, climbing light posts and bus stop canopies. The city implemented street closures and vehicle restrictions in the downtown area due to the celebrations. Mayor Jim Kenney urged residents to celebrate “joyously, safely, and respectfully,” as the Eagles prepare to face the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII on February 12.