In a special collaboration to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the iconic romantic comedy Sleepless in Seattle, the Empire State Building and the Space Needle have joined forces. This coast-to-coast celebration, supported by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Alaska Airlines, Visit Seattle, New York City Tourism + Conventions, and Seattle Center, promises an enchanting experience for fans. The event will feature synchronized lighting displays, exclusive film screenings, engaging activities at both landmarks, and an exciting sweepstakes for a chance to win a weeklong trip to Seattle and New York City.
The Space Needle’s Chief Marketing Officer, Randy Coté, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “As Sleepless in Seattle superfans, we’ve had a front row seat to guests from around the world living out their romantic comedy dreams in the Emerald City. The Space Needle is thrilled to collaborate with the Empire State Building to help even more people make memories by celebrating the 30th anniversary this summer!”
Jean-Yves Ghazi, the president of the Empire State Building Observatory, highlighted the significance of Sleepless in Seattle’s connection to the iconic building. “The Empire State Building and its reimagined Observatory have been featured in countless movie moments, and one of the most beloved for many will always be Sleepless in Seattle,” Ghazi said. “We are delighted to honor the anniversary of such a film with our friends in Seattle and celebrate the warmth and love that fans continue to feel 30 years later as they watch the movie and then visit us to experience it for themselves.”
The celebrations planned for the anniversary include several exciting activities:
“It’s a Sign” – On June 30, at sunset, both the Empire State Building and the Space Needle will be illuminated in a synchronized display. The Space Needle will glow in radiant red, while the Empire State Building will feature lavender and red lights, with a heart spinning in the tower’s mast, reminiscent of the original movie artwork. This dazzling display pays homage to the poignant “sign” that guided the character Annie Reed back to the top of the Empire State Building.
Special Anniversary Screenings – On July 1, at 9:30 p.m., Seattle Center’s Mural Amphitheater will host a free one-night-only screening of Sleepless in Seattle. Movie enthusiasts can enjoy the film against the breathtaking backdrop of the Space Needle. Meanwhile, visitors to the Empire State Building Observatory can purchase a special ticket for a private viewing of Sleepless in Seattle on July 9, at 9 p.m. The exclusive screening will take place on the 80th Floor, accompanied by complimentary soda, candy, and popcorn.
Recreate the Magic – From June 29 through July 3, visitors to both the Empire State Building Observatory and the Space Needle will have the opportunity to recreate the iconic movie poster from Sleepless in Seattle. Guests can pose for their own authentic shots and share them on social media using the hashtag #Sleepless30. Additionally, visitors to the Space Needle can indulge in themed cocktails at the Space Needle Bar, featuring drinks with names such as Baltimore Sun, Teddy Bear, Never Settle, and Sleepless in Seattle.
Sleepless in Seattle Sweepstakes – Starting June 26 and running until July 21, fans can enter the Sleepless in Seattle Sweepstakes online at sleepless30.com for a chance to win a six-night trip for two to both Seattle and New York City. The prize package includes flights courtesy of Alaska Airlines, three-night stays at luxury hotels in both cities, exclusive tours of the Space Needle and the Empire State Building, CityPass tickets for popular attractions, and a $500 gift card to explore the movie’s iconic locations.
The Empire State Building, known as the “World’s Most Famous Building,” stands tall at 1,454 feet above Midtown Manhattan. With its recent $165 million Observatory Experience reimagination, the iconic landmark offers a captivating journey for visitors. The Empire State Building Observatory, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows on the redesigned 102nd Floor, provides unparalleled 360-degree views of New York City. Recognized as America’s Favorite Building by the American Institute of Architects and the world’s most popular travel destination by Uber, the Empire State Building continues to captivate millions of visitors each year.
Seattle’s Space Needle, a centerpiece of the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair, has become a globally recognized symbol of the city. Standing at 605 feet tall, the landmark offers breathtaking views of Seattle, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. After undergoing a recent $100 million renovation, the Space Needle now boasts over 176 tons of glass, enhancing its panoramic vistas. The addition of The Loupe, the world’s first and only revolving glass floor, has further elevated the visitor experience.
For more information about the event and to purchase tickets, visit esbnyc.com and spaceneedle.com. Don’t miss this extraordinary collaboration as Sleepless in Seattle continues to capture hearts and inspire romance three decades later.
Article primary photo credit: Chad Copeland
