Manhattanhenge 2017 Dates: When, How To Watch Annual Sunset Event

It's almost that time of the year again, when people in New York City stand in the middle of the street with high hopes of seeing something spectacular. What they're looking for is the sun, perfectly aligned with the city's streets.

The event was made popular by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, who noticed that the sun aligned perfectly with the streets in New York twice a year. His theory is that one day if anyone ever discovered the streets that sit on a grid after some apocalyptic event, they'll think the city was set up that way to honor the sun twice a year.

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The first time Manhattanhenge is visible during the year is around Memorial Day weekend, and the second is usually in early July.

When is Manhattanhenge 2017:

This year Manhattanhenge will happen on May 29 and July 13. On these days you'll see half of the sun above the horizon line making for a half circle of light shooting up whatever street you're on. On May 30 and July 12 you'll be able to see the full sun at the end of the street, according to the American Museum of Natural History. This happens because throughout the year the spot at which the sun sets is constantly changing and moving ever so slightly each day.

Best places to see Manhattanhenge:

There are certain streets in New York City that align perfectly for Manhattanhenge viewing. You'll want to arrive at one of these streets about a half hour before the sun is going to set that day. In May the sun will set a little before 8:15 p.m. and in July it'll be around 8:20 p.m. You'll also want to be early to ensure you get a good spot, the streets will be full of people trying to snap the perfect photo. Fourteenth, 23rd and 34th streets are all prime spots to watch the event, but if you're closer to midtown 42nd and 57th streets will also be good viewing spots. If you want to get ambitious you could head over to the Empire State or Chrysler buildings to get those in your shot as well. You'll be able to figure out which way the sun is setting based on the direction everyone is looking but be sure you can see New Jersey far in the distance.

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If you want to celebrate the event in a big way you could also attend a Manhattanhenge event at the Museum of Natural History. There will be a special presentation in the Hayden Planetarium on May 30.

The photos flood social media every year. Some of them capture the sight in all of its glory.

While others capture the massive amount of people who crowd the streets to get a glimpse of the setting sun.

Past Manhattanhenges have resulted in some great photos, and some not so great photos. But you may have to just see it for yourself to decide if it's actually worth all the hype.