2,977 Lights Rise Over New York Harbor and Rebuild the Twin Towers in Light
On September 9, 2026, 2,977 lights rose above New York Harbor and assembled into the Twin Towers at full architectural scale. Created ahead of the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, the public artwork honored each life lost and offered a shared moment of remembrance, reflection and unity. Developed in collaboration with members of the 9/11 family, survivor and first-responder communities, 2,977 Lights Over New York Harbor began as a spiraling helix before forming the towers in the night sky. The installation was conceived in dialogue with the iconic "Tribute in Light" and accompanied by reflective musical works from Philip Glass, John Adams, and Max Richter. The project was produced by Addison Mehr and Sky Elements and made possible entirely through private philanthropy and in-kind contributions. Major support came from the Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund, 9/11 family members and the Blavatnik Family Foundation, with additional support from Pershing Square Philanthropies. Sponsored by the New York Foundation for the Arts, the installation was presented as a gift to New York City and to everyone whose life has been affected by September 11.
