Reverse Manhattanhenge, or Winter Manhattanhenge, is a lesser-known phenomenon where the sun aligns with New York City's east-west grid during sunrises.

Reverse Manhattanhenge is the sunrise equivalent of the famous sunset phenomenon, occurring twice a year (typically in early January and late November/early December) when the rising sun aligns perfectly with the east-west street grid of Manhattan. While the standard Manhattanhenge draws crowds in the evening, the "reverse" version turns cross-streets like 42nd and 14th into glowing golden corridors at dawn. In 2026, the primary events took place around January 11–12, offering a rare, fleeting spectacle where the sun rises exactly at the center of the asphalt canyons. Because the sunrise alignment happens during colder months and earlier in the day, it is often less crowded than the summer sunset version, making it a favorite for photographers and early risers looking to capture the city bathed in a unique, low-angle light.

Excellent question! “Reverse Manhattanhenge” is a term used to describe the sunset version of the famous Manhattanhenge phenomenon.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

What is Manhattanhenge?

First, a quick recap: Manhattanhenge (sometimes called the “Manhattan Solstice”) occurs when the setting sun aligns perfectly with the east-west street grid of Manhattan, New York City. The sun’s disk appears framed by the towering buildings, creating a spectacular visual effect down the cross streets. It happens twice for the full sun and twice for the half sun each year, around late May and mid-July.

The “Reverse” Phenomenon

The term “Reverse Manhattanhenge” refers to the same celestial alignment, but for sunrise instead of sunset.

• Direction: Instead of the sun setting in the west, it is rising in the east.
• Alignment: The rising sun aligns with the street grid when viewed from the west side of Manhattan, looking east.
• Timing: It occurs around the winter solstice (approximately December and January), when the sun rises at its most southeastern point along the horizon.

Key Differences from “Standard” Manhattanhenge:

Feature Manhattanhenge (Standard) Reverse Manhattanhenge Event Sunset Sunrise Season Late Spring / Early Summer (May, July) Winter (Dec, Jan) Viewing Direction Look WEST from the east sides of streets. Look EAST from the west sides of streets. Crowds Extremely popular, large crowds. Much less crowded, known mostly to enthusiasts. Weather Generally warmer, clearer skies possible. Colder, higher chance of overcast skies. Iconic Photo Ops Sun framed by iconic skyscrapers like the Empire State Building. Sun rising between buildings, often with a different architectural backdrop.

Why is it less famous?

1. Timing: Sunrise in winter is very early and cold, discouraging large gatherings.
2. Weather: Northeastern winters often bring cloudy mornings, making the event less reliable to view