On Wednesday evening, tens of thousands of New Yorkers and visitors gathered in Manhattan to witness the traditional lighting ceremony of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Despite cold, windy weather with intermittent rain, the majestic 74-foot Norway spruce was illuminated, marking what many consider the true beginning of the Christmas holidays. The tree, adorned with over 50,000 multicolored LED lights strung on five miles of wire, dazzled the crowd as it was lit during a televised event. Cheers erupted as the lights made the tree shine brightly in the heart of Manhattan.
The ceremony featured a star-studded lineup, with Kelly Clarkson returning as host for the second consecutive year. She was joined by NBC’s TODAY show presenters Craig Melvin, Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie, and Hoda Kotb. Performances included musical acts by Coco Jones, Little Big Town, and Jennifer Hudson. Hudson serenaded the crowd with “Winter Wonderland”, shimmering in a sequin ensemble and silver-toned slingback pumps.
Before lighting the tree, Kelly Clarkson led the famous countdown that precedes the celebration. The anticipation built as the public joined in, and after a drumroll and the pressing of a button with the help of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, the tree was illuminated. The moment was met with cheers from the gathered crowds.
The tree itself is a Norway spruce from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, marking the first time in 65 years that the tree has come from this location. Donated by the Albert family, the 11-ton tree measures 74 feet tall and 43 feet wide. It was selected in 2020 by Erik Pauze, the head gardener of Rockefeller Center, who has been responsible for choosing the tree for nearly 30 years. Pauze discovered the tree when he happened to drive by the Albert family’s home and was captivated by its perfect shape and size.
In an interview, Pauze said, “What I look for is a tree you would want in your living room but on a grander scale. It’s got that nice, perfect shape all around,” as People magazine reporter. He added, “And most of all, it’s gotta look good for those kids who turn the corner at 30 Rock; it needs to instantly put a huge smile on their faces. It needs to evoke that feeling of happiness.”
The tree is topped with a 900-pound golden star designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, adorned with nearly three million Swarovski crystals that reflect the lights, adding to the tree’s splendor. The star has 70 points and is one of the most prominent elements of the decoration.
Despite an earlier shooting near the area, Chief of Department Jeffrey B. Maddrey stated, “This is a terrible event, but people are going to go on and enjoy the tree lighting tonight,” highlighting the resilience of attendees. ABC News reported that no security incidents were reported during the event, and the increased police presence ensured the safety of all participants.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony has been a beloved tradition since 1933. The first official lighting took place that year, quickly gaining popularity as a legendary holiday spectacle. The tradition began in 1931 when construction workers pooled their money to buy a small tree, marking a gesture of hope during the Great Depression.
The tree will be on display until mid-January 2025, illuminated daily from 5:00 AM to midnight. On December 24th, the tree will shine for a full 24 hours, continuing a special tradition. After the holiday season, the tree will be milled into lumber and donated to Habitat for Humanity, which uses the wood to build homes for families in need and victims of natural disasters.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree stands proudly in Rockefeller Plaza, symbolizing Christmas and reflecting the values of unity and hope characteristic of the season. Visiting the tree and taking photos with it is free, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Manhattan. The annual lighting not only marks the beginning of the Christmas season but also represents an opportunity for friends and families to gather and celebrate the magic of Christmas together.
New York City is renowned for its Christmas spirit, with decorated homes and vibrant streets filled with lights during the holiday season. The city offers a magical experience full of lights, traditions, and special events, making it an unmissable destination for those seeking to enjoy the holiday spirit. The lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is one of the most popular traditions, drawing visitors from around the globe.
This year’s ceremony, broadcast live by NBC and the streaming platform Peacock, continues the legacy of bringing joy to all who attend. As the tree shines brightly, it serves as a beacon of hope and unity, reminding everyone of the enduring spirit of the season.
