In November each year, you may notice some of your neighbors’ porch lights turning green. While it’s easy to assume that they’re getting a head start on their Christmas decorating, a green porch light actually has a significance that has nothing to do with the holiday season. Americans use green porch lights to show support for U.S. military veterans. The idea began as part of an initiative called the Greenlight a Vet project. According to the campaign, “The simple action of changing one light to green is intended to spark a national conversation regarding the recognition of veterans, and ‘greenlight’ them forward as valued members of our communities.”
I’ve always found it heartwarming to see these green lights pop up around my neighborhood—it’s like a quiet nod to those who’ve served. To add to this, the Greenlight a Vet project isn’t just about lighting up porches. It’s part of a broader effort to raise awareness about veterans’ contributions and challenges. For instance, a 2023 report from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs noted that there are over 16 million living veterans in the U.S., many of whom face challenges like accessing healthcare or transitioning to civilian jobs. By switching to a green bulb, you’re not just decorating—you’re joining a movement that encourages communities to actively support veterans through local programs, job opportunities, and mental health resources. Plus, it’s a low-cost way to show solidarity; a decent LED green bulb costs less than $10 and lasts for years.
How Did the Green Light Tradition Start?
In 2013, Walmart’s Veterans Welcome Home Commitment initiative, which provides jobs to any honorably discharged U.S. veteran, created an ad campaign asking people to turn on a green porch light as a way to recognize and show appreciation for veterans in their community. They encouraged people to share their support on social media by taking a photo of their green light and sharing it with the hashtag #GreenlightAVet. (A SfnHk editor has reached out to Walmart for comment; Walmart will not confirm whether the initiative is ongoing.)
The Greenlight a Vet initiative is not the only one to shine a light, so to speak, on our country’s veterans: In 2022, The National Association of Counties (NACo) in affiliation with the National Association of County Veterans Services Officers (NACVSO), launched Operation Green Light for Veterans (#OperationGreenLight). In the program’s debut year, over 300 counties participated nationwide, including Fairbanks, Alaska’s North Star Borough and Mohave County, Arizona. Nicole Weissman, NACo’s director of strategic communications, expects the number of participating counties this year to be “significantly larger” than it was last year.
“We must support our veterans and their families—not only during Operation Green Light but all year round,” says NACo President Jo McGuire. “Counties are advocating for legislation to secure appropriate resources at the local level to help veterans access their federal benefits, ease their transition into civilian life, and support their long-term health and well-being.”
The association explains, “By shining a green light, county governments and our residents will let veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported.” NACo’s initiative encourages all U.S. counties and parishes to show support for military veterans by illuminating courthouses, offices, and other municipal buildings in green from November 4–11, the week of Veterans Day.
In September 2023, the House of Representatives introduced House Resolution 750, a bipartisan bill recognizing Operation Green Light for Veterans for “supporting veterans and…help[ing] veterans transition to civilian life.”
I remember driving through a small town last November and seeing entire main streets lit up green—it was such a powerful sight. To give you a sense of the scale, NACo reported that in 2022, over 300 counties participated, representing millions of residents. That’s a lot of green lights! If you’re curious about getting involved, check with your local county office—some even hand out free green bulbs to encourage participation. One practical tip: if you’re using traditional bulbs, switch to LED ones. They use about 80% less energy, which means you can keep that green glow going longer without worrying about your electric bill. Plus, many counties now tie this initiative to broader veteran support programs, like job fairs or mental health workshops, so you might find local events to amplify your support.
Using Smart Exterior Lighting to Show Your Support for Veterans
Though you can purchase green-tinted light bulbs to illuminate your home’s exterior, homeowners who have smart lighting systems only need to press a button on their smartphone to show their support for U.S. veterans. Those who have the Philips Hue Smart Light kit, for example, can set their exterior LEDs to glow green, and use a voice assistant to control the lights’ settings.
BobVila.com staff writer Glenda Taylor swears by Enbrighten’s Eternity Permanent Outdoor Lights, which she has installed at her home. “I’m super-impressed with Enbrighten’s permanent lights,” she says. “The app is easy to use, and I can configure the lights in an endless array of color tones to fit any mood or occasion.” The video above shows how stunning Taylor’s home looks when she switches the lights to green.
I’ve been experimenting with smart lights at my place, and let me tell you, the convenience is a game-changer. With something like the Philips Hue, you can schedule your lights to turn green automatically during Veterans Day week, which is super handy if you’re forgetful like me. A quick cost breakdown: a basic Philips Hue starter kit runs about $100–$150, but it’s a one-time investment for year-round versatility. If you’re not ready to go all-in on smart lights, a single green LED bulb from a retailer like Home Depot costs under $5 and does the job just fine. One pro tip: if you’re using smart lights, try setting a timer to turn them on at dusk for maximum visibility. It’s a small tweak that makes your support stand out in the neighborhood.
Why Green Lights on Houses, Rather Than Another Color?
Now that you understand the origin of these veterans initiatives, you may still be wondering why the color green, and not another hue, was chosen. Green is a color that is often associated with the military because of the green uniforms traditionally worn by troops, but there’s a more symbolic meaning as well. According to the Greenlight a Vet campaign, “Green is the color of hope, renewal and well-being.” They add that “‘Greenlight’ is also a term commonly used to activate forward movement.”
I love how the color green carries so much meaning here—it’s not just random. Beyond the military connection, green’s association with renewal resonates deeply when you think about veterans transitioning to civilian life. A 2022 study from the Pew Research Center found that 60% of veterans face challenges adjusting to post-military life, so the idea of “forward movement” feels especially fitting. If you’re picking a shade, go for a vibrant green rather than a dim or yellowish one—it’s more eye-catching and conveys that sense of hope. Also, if you’re worried about light pollution, opt for bulbs with lower lumens (around 800–1000) to keep the glow welcoming without overwhelming your neighbors.
When Should You Shine a Green Porch Light on Your Home?
While Veterans Day on November 11 is the most symbolic time of year to show support for America’s troops, why not follow Operation Green Light for Veterans’ lead and shine the light for the whole week of Veterans Day, or even keep your green light up year-round to show your ongoing appreciation for our military?
In Prattville, Alabama, community advocate Julie Cooley, who is also a military spouse and mother, went a little further. She encouraged “neighbors, municipalities and businesses to show their love and support of our veterans this week. Some choose to put signage on their marquis, some offer discounts, some turn their lights green! What’s important is that our military veterans and their families feel a great big hug from their Prattville community.”
“One of NACo’s goals for Operation Green Light is to equip counties to participate in a way that’s meaningful to veterans in their community, so we’re always looking for ways to do that,” says Weissman. In some counties, she says, this outreach includes “distributing green light bulbs or otherwise encouraging residents to participate” in Operation Green Light for Veterans. If you’d like to show your support for veterans this month, pick up a green light bulb at your local hardware store—or at one of the following retailers.
I’ve always thought Veterans Day week is a great time to show this kind of support, but honestly, keeping the green light up longer feels even more meaningful. Last year, I left mine on for the whole month of November, and a neighbor who’s a veteran actually stopped by to say how much it meant to him. If you’re looking for ways to go beyond the light, consider pairing it with a small gesture—like dropping off a thank-you note at a local veterans’ center. Also, if you’re buying bulbs, check for energy-efficient options. A 2024 energy report estimated that switching to LEDs can save you about $50 a year on lighting costs if you use them regularly, so it’s a win for both your wallet and the cause.
Where to Buy Green Light Bulbs
Get the Bluex LED A19 Green Bulbs (2-pack) at Amazon for $9.99.
Get the Feit Electric LED Light Bulb Green Colored Clear Glass at The Home Depot for $4.83.
Get the Great Value LED Light Bulbs, Green, 2-pack at Walmart for $5.97.
Get the Philips 90-Watt Equivalent PAR 38 LED Flood Green Light Bulb at The Home Depot for $9.98.
Get the Wintergreen Lighting 25-watt Equivalent ST64/E26 LED Light Bulb at Wayfair for $15.99.
Prices provided here are accurate as of November 1, 2024.
Shopping for green bulbs is easier than you’d think, and the prices are pretty budget-friendly. I grabbed a couple of the Feit Electric bulbs last year because they’re bright and super affordable—under $5! If you’re wondering which to pick, the Bluex or Great Value 2-packs are great for covering multiple fixtures. One thing to watch for: make sure the bulb fits your fixture’s socket (most are standard E26). Also, if you’re buying online, double-check shipping times so you’re ready for Veterans Day. For an extra touch, some folks pair their green lights with a small flag or veteran-themed yard sign—my local hardware store had a bunch of those last November, and they really tie the look together.