Christmas in New York whispers magic through every twinkling street, with the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree standing tall as a beacon of joy. The lighting ceremony, a cherished tradition, gathers locals and travelers alike beneath its radiant glow. Hearts come together, their rhythms softened by the shimmering dance of thousands of lights.
Here, the city pauses, shedding its restless pace for a fleeting moment of wonder. Each glimmer from the tree weaves threads of starlight, stitching the sky with dreams born of the season’s magic. The night blooms gently, its chill tempered by the warmth of flickering lights that shimmer like whispers of joy.
To stand beneath this celestial canopy, where carols ripple through the air like whispered prayers, is to feel New York’s pulse slow and swell with grace. A million quiet sighs rise, blending with the glow, as the city’s heart beats in harmony with the season’s timeless song.
Story Behind Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The story of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree began in 1931, during the Great Depression. A group of construction workers building Rockefeller Center pooled their money to buy a modest 20-foot balsam fir, hoping to uplift spirits. They decorated it with handmade garlands crafted by their families, creating a symbol of hope amidst hard times.
The first official tree-lighting ceremony followed in 1933, initiated by a Rockefeller Center publicist. Over the years, this annual event has grown into a cherished tradition, attracting visitors from around the world.
This year, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a magnificent Norway Spruce from the Southern Berkshires of Massachusetts. It was cut on November 7, 2024, and arrived in Midtown Manhattan on November 9. The lighting ceremony, held on December 4, 2024, united a live audience and millions of viewers at home during the broadcast of Christmas at Rockefeller Center.
Also Read: Best Christmas Celebrations in USA
Fascinating Facts About the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
- Approximately 750,000 people visit the tree daily during the holiday season.
- The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree typically stands around 78 feet tall.
- Its branches are adorned with nearly 45,000 multi-colored LED lights.
- When first lit in 1933, the tree featured just 700 lights.
- A 5-mile-long string of lights is wrapped around this iconic tree.
- The tree weighs an impressive 10 tons.
- A dazzling Swarovski star with 25,000 crystals crowns the top.
- The tree is estimated to be around 80 years old.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
Visitors can experience the magic of the beautifully lit tree throughout the holiday season. Here’s the lighting schedule:
- Sunday–Wednesday: 5 AM to midnight
- Thursday–Saturday: 5 AM to 1 AM
- Christmas Day: Lit for 24 hours
- New Year’s Eve: Lit from 5 AM to 9 PM
The tree will remain on display until mid-January 2025, giving everyone plenty of time to enjoy its festive glow.
If you find yourself in New York during the holidays, let the Rockefeller Center Tree mesmerize you with its brilliance. Its glow cascades like a shower of stars, wrapping the city in a heavenly light. Beneath its towering beauty, the city comes alive with a timeless magic that touches every heart. Each twinkle whispers the season’s wonder, weaving dreams into the frosty air. Under its splendor, the world seems to pause, illuminated by the soft glow of hope, love, and the timeless joy of Christmas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree tradition began in 1931 during the Great Depression with a 20-foot balsam fir placed by construction workers. The first official tree-lighting ceremony followed in 1933, starting the annual holiday event.
How tall is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
The tree is approximately 78 feet tall.
Can I visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
Yes, the tree is on display in Midtown Manhattan, and approximately 750,000 people visit it daily during the holiday season.
How old is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
The tree is estimated to be around 80 years old.
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