Discover the timeless magic of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is one of the most celebrated holiday traditions in New York City, dating back to 1931. Originally started by construction workers during the Great Depression who pooled money to buy a modest 20-foot balsam fir tree decorated with simple items like tin cans and cranberries, the ceremony evolved into an annual event in 1933. Since then, the tree and its decorations have grown dramatically in size and extravagance.
Today, the tree is typically a Norway spruce standing between 69 and 100 feet tall, adorned with around 50,000 multicolored LED lights. The crowning glory is a Swarovski crystal star designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, featuring 70 glass spikes and about 3 million crystals, emitting 106,000 lumens of light that can turn night into day. This star alone weighs approximately 900 pounds.
The lighting ceremony usually takes place on the last Wednesday of November or the first Wednesday of December following Thanksgiving and is broadcast live on NBC to hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide. The event features live entertainment and is symbolically lit by the Mayor of New York City along with other special guests.
In addition to the lighting, Rockefeller Center opens its famous ice-skating rink below the tree, adding to the festive atmosphere. The tree remains on display until mid-January. And since 2007, after the holiday season, the tree has been donated for lumber use, helping to construct Habitat for Humanity homes.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is not only a symbol of holiday spirit and celebration, but it has also become a national tradition beloved by millions.
Check the event page for this year’s date and time, when announced. If you can't make the event, no worries, the lights remain lit throughout the holiday season.
And make sure to book our ultimate holiday tour to see the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, the 5th Avenue Holiday Light Show, Central Park, and more!