Did You Know: Porch Light Colors in MT Now Have New Meanings?

BUTTE, MT - Take a drive around the beautiful little bundles of buildings we call "towns" and you might notice something peculiar. 

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If you take a closer look at the homes around town, you might notice a different kind of light show.

Porch lights aren't just for illuminating front steps anymore—they’ve become a colorful way for Montanans to silently communicate messages of hope, awareness, and support for causes they care about.

Yes, porch lights have gone from purely functional to delightfully symbolic, each hue carrying a story.

Imagine you're strolling through a neighborhood in Helena or Missoula or Butte and you see a green porch light glowing softly in the evening. What's the story behind it? Is it a tribute to a local veteran? A message of solidarity?

Porch lights are like Montana’s version of the "If you know, you know" club—silent but impactful symbols that can connect neighbors and strangers alike.

Whether you're lighting up your home in support of your favorite cause or you're just curious about what your neighbor's purple porch light stands for, this guide will help you decode the hidden meanings behind those bright beacons.

Here’s your chance to learn why folks across Montana are swapping out their standard bulbs for colors that speak volumes.

Green Light

A green porch light is often used to honor veterans and show military support. The "Greenlight A Vet" campaign encourages displaying green lights to recognize the contributions of veterans.

Blue Light

Blue porch lights typically signify support for law enforcement agencies. Additionally, they can represent autism awareness, highlighting support for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Red Light

Red porch lights are commonly associated with support for firefighters. They are also used to promote awareness of heart health, particularly during American Heart Month in February.

Purple Light

Displaying a purple porch light raises awareness about domestic violence. This color is adopted by organizations dedicated to ending domestic violence and supporting survivors.

Pink Light

Pink porch lights are used to show support for breast cancer awareness. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, pink lights serve as a reminder of the importance of mammograms and support for those affected by breast cancer.

Flashing White Light

A flashing white porch light can indicate that a neighbor is in trouble or needs assistance. It's also a helpful signal for emergency personnel to identify the specific home requiring attention.