Lights atop the Empire State Building began using color in 1976.
The first was Red, White and Blue for the country's Bicentennial celebration. Then in December Green & Red for Christmas Holiday Season.
In 2006 the buildings official Lighting Program began. The program screened requests and the colors of the occasion.
The lights have been used to salute corporations to cartoon characters, like the Simpson's and Popeye. Also Sports teams and Music artists and good causes as Breast cancer, Alzheimer's and Green for Earth Day.
For 6 years the Building rejected requests for lights honoring Gay Pride. In 1990 this changed when the tower was lite-up Lavender & White the night of the Gay Pride Parade.
The lighting display is a big attraction for tourists and locals alike. It can be seen from three States, NY, NJ and Connecticut. When not in color the top part of the building is flooded at night with White Light.
Empire State Building Lighting Calendar ... http://www.esbnyc.com/explore/tower-lights/calendar