Key Points:
- Rockefeller tree lights up NYC with 75‑foot spruce
- Reba hosts star acts and the Rockettes’ centennial
- Tree repurposed for Habitat after January display
New York City welcomed the holiday season in spectacular style as the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree was illuminated in a dazzling ceremony on Wednesday night. The towering 75-foot Norway spruce, adorned with approximately 50,000 multicolored LED lights, cast a warm glow over the plaza and Midtown streets. Crowds gathered from across the U.S. and around the globe, braving the chilly December air for a glimpse of the beloved seasonal spectacle. Many visitors arrived hours in advance, some traveling from as far as Ohio and Scotland to experience the event in person. The sight of the glittering tree drew cheers, capturing the quintessential New York holiday spirit.
Road closures and heightened security measures ensured the safety of attendees. Streets surrounding the plaza, including several blocks between 46th and 52nd Streets, were cordoned off to manage the large crowds. Event organizers worked to provide a smooth experience for all visitors while preserving the festive atmosphere that has made this event a citywide tradition.
Tradition Meets Celebration
This year’s event marked the 93rd annual tree-lighting ceremony, a tradition that has been celebrated since the early 1930s. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, transported from East Greenbush, New York, stands at around 11 tons and is estimated to be over 60 years old. It was crowned with the signature Swarovski crystal star, weighing 900 pounds, a centerpiece that symbolizes the grandeur of the season.
Country-music star Reba McEntire hosted the event, guiding the evening’s lineup of performances by renowned artists, including Michael Bublé, Halle Bailey, Marc Anthony, Gwen Stefani, and Kristin Chenoweth. Adding to the spectacle was a special performance by the Radio City Rockettes, commemorating their 100th anniversary this year. The combination of music, dance, and the festive lights created a magical experience that resonated with visitors of all ages.
The tree will remain illuminated daily from early morning until midnight through mid-January, with extended hours on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Following the display period, the spruce will be repurposed into lumber to support Habitat for Humanity, continuing a long-standing commitment to sustainability and community support.
A Legacy of Hope and Holiday Spirit
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree tradition began in 1931, when a modest 20-foot balsam fir was decorated by workers at Rockefeller Center during the Great Depression. From those humble beginnings, the annual tree-lighting ceremony has evolved into a worldwide symbol of hope, joy, and unity.
Over the decades, the tree has grown in size, decorative sophistication, and cultural significance, drawing thousands of New Yorkers and global visitors each year. The 2025 ceremony upheld this legacy, offering a dazzling visual spectacle, music, and festive cheer under the iconic spruce. For those who witnessed it, the Rockefeller Center tree remains a shining reminder of the holiday spirit and the enduring magic of New York City during the festive season.
