On May 12, the Empire State Building lit its world-famous tower lights in light blue to celebrate Sports Illustrated Swimsuit's Annual 2026 issue debut.
Earlier that day, Alix Earle, Xandra, Tunde Oyeneyin, Achieng Agutu, Penny Lane, Nicole Williams English, Camille Kostek and Lauren Chan visited the Empire State Building to flip the switch in a lighting ceremony and tour the building's immersive exhibits and 86th & 102nd Floor Observation Decks.
Sports Illustrated Swimsuit is one of the most recognizable and influential symbols of pop culture. Featuring talent from around the world, the issue has become a revered launching pad and platform for successful careers in media, fashion, business, TV, and film. The iconic and innovative institution continues to set the cultural tone and evoke discussion about what defines beauty on a global scale. Learn more about Sports Illustrated Swimsuit online.
Watch the lighting ceremony below!
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