UPDATE: The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting is happening tonight at 10:00 PM, heralding the start of the holiday season in Midtown, Manhattan. This year’s magnificent 75-foot Norway Spruce was donated by Judy Ross from East Greenbush, New York, in memory of her late husband and family members.
The tree, originally planted by Ross’s husband’s great-grandparents in the 1920s, will shine brightly with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and will be topped with a stunning 900-pound Swarovski star. As crowds gather in anticipation, the event is set to transform Rockefeller Center into a dazzling holiday landmark.
The lighting ceremony marks more than just a festive display; it also triggers the beginning of street closures around Rockefeller Center for the holiday season. Drivers should prepare for substantial delays and road closures across Manhattan during designated Gridlock Alert Days. Officials recommend using public transport options, including regional rail lines, subways, buses, ferries, and even cycling or walking, to navigate the busy streets.
This cherished tradition began in 1931 during the Great Depression, when workers erected a modest 20-foot balsam fir adorned with handmade garlands to uplift spirits. The inaugural tree-lighting ceremony took place in 1933, and since then, it has become a beloved holiday ritual drawing thousands of visitors each year.
As excitement builds for tonight’s spectacular event, New Yorkers and tourists alike are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. The lighting ceremony not only signifies the festive mood but also represents the enduring spirit of community and remembrance during this special time of year.
Stay tuned for live updates on this beloved holiday tradition as it unfolds tonight at Rockefeller Center.
