Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting 2025 Recap: What Happened and What to Know for 2026
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The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony took place on December 3, 2025, drawing thousands of spectators to Midtown Manhattan and millions of viewers worldwide. The annual event once again marked the official start of New York City’s holiday season, featuring live performances, a nationally televised broadcast, and the illumination of the iconic Christmas tree at Rockefeller Plaza.
The ceremony aired live from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM ET, with the tree lighting occurring around 10:00 PM, continuing a tradition that has spanned more than eight decades.
2025 Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting: Key Facts
The 2025 Rockefeller Christmas Tree was a 75-foot Norway spruce, approximately 75 years old, donated by the Russ family of East Greenbush, New York. The tree weighed roughly 11 tons and was decorated with:
Over 50,000 multicolored LED lights
Approximately 5 miles of light strings
A 9-foot Swarovski crystal star, weighing about 900 pounds and featuring 3 million crystals
The tree remained on display at Rockefeller Plaza from December 3, 2025, through mid-January 2026
How the Rockefeller Christmas Tree Is Chosen Each Year
Selecting the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is a process that begins years before the lighting ceremony ever takes place. Each year, a dedicated team from Rockefeller Center, led by the head gardener, travels across the northeastern United States in search of the perfect Norway spruce. The tree must meet strict criteria for height, shape, fullness, and strength to withstand transportation, installation, and weeks of winter weather in Midtown Manhattan.
Most trees are not purchased but donated by private families, making the tradition deeply personal. In many cases, the selected tree has been growing for decades in a backyard, field, or rural property. Owners are often unaware their tree has been chosen until Rockefeller representatives make contact after spotting it from the road or receiving a nomination.
Once a candidate is identified, the team conducts multiple site visits to assess the tree’s health, symmetry, and root stability. Only after final approval does the tree begin its journey to New York City. Following the holiday season, the tree’s wood is milled and donated to charitable organizations, extending its legacy beyond the lights and celebrations.
This careful selection process ensures that each year’s tree is not only visually stunning, but also rooted in community, tradition, and sustainability—qualities that have defined the Rockefeller Tree Lighting for generations.
Performers and Broadcast
The 2025 ceremony featured performances by Reba McEntire (host and performer), Michael Bublé, Gwen Stefani, Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Kristin Chenoweth, Laufey, New Edition, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, and a special anniversary performance by the Radio City Rockettes.
The event was broadcast nationally on NBC, streamed on Peacock, and simulcast on Telemundo, with appearances by TODAY show anchors and city officials.
Crowds and Visitor Experience
Attendance levels remained high throughout the evening. Visitors who arrived before mid-afternoon reported better access to viewing areas, while crowd-control measures limited movement closer to the ceremony start time. Streets surrounding Rockefeller Center closed early, and public transportation was the primary means of access.
Many visitors opted to view the tree during off-peak hours in the days following the ceremony, particularly during early mornings and weekday evenings.
Visiting Rockefeller Center After the Lighting Ceremony
For many visitors, the best way to experience the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is after the official lighting night. In the days and weeks following the ceremony, the tree remains illuminated daily and can be enjoyed without the extreme crowds that gather on December 3.
Early mornings are especially popular with photographers and travelers seeking a quieter atmosphere. Weekday afternoons also offer a more relaxed viewing experience, allowing visitors to take photos, visit nearby attractions, and enjoy the surrounding holiday décor at a comfortable pace. Late evenings, particularly after 10 PM, tend to be calmer as well.
Rockefeller Center’s location in Midtown Manhattan makes it easy to combine a tree visit with ice skating at the famous rink, holiday window shopping along Fifth Avenue, or dining at nearby restaurants. For first-time visitors, spreading the experience across multiple moments—rather than only ceremony night—often results in a more memorable and enjoyable visit.
Timeline of Events
Nov. 6, 2025: Tree cut in East Greenbush, NY
Nov. 8, 2025: Tree transported and hoisted at Rockefeller Plaza
Mid-November: Decoration and lighting installation
By Nov. 27: Scaffolding removed ahead of Thanksgiving weekend
Dec. 3: Lighting ceremony held
Dec. 3–Mid-Jan.: Public viewing period
Daily lighting hours:
5:00 AM to midnight; 24-hour lighting on Christmas Eve; lights off at 9:00 PM on New Year’s Eve.
VIP and Premium Experiences
Select guests attended through VIP experiences that included private viewing areas, reserved seating, dining, open bars, and hosted entertainment. These premium options sold out in advance, reflecting continued demand for elevated access during the holiday season.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Rockefeller Tree Lighting
While official details for the 2026 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting have not yet been announced, the event is expected to follow a similar timeline, typically taking place in late November or early December.
Based on 2025 patterns, visitors planning for 2026 should expect:
Early street closures and large crowds
Limited premium access options
Best viewing opportunities outside the ceremony night
Dates and performer announcements for 2026 are usually released in the fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When does the Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting usually take place?
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting typically takes place in late November or early December. In 2025, the ceremony was held on December 3, and future editions are expected to follow a similar timeline.
2. Is the Rockefeller Christmas Tree free to visit?
Yes. The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is free and open to the public throughout the holiday season. Visitors can view the tree daily from early December through mid-January without purchasing a ticket.
3. What is the best time to see the Rockefeller Christmas Tree without crowds?
The best times to visit are early mornings, weekday afternoons, or late evenings after 10 PM. These hours offer a calmer experience compared to peak evening and weekend crowds.
4. Where is the Rockefeller Christmas Tree located?
The tree is located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, between West 49th and West 50th Streets in Midtown Manhattan, New York City.
5. Do VIP or premium experiences sell out quickly?
Yes. VIP viewing and hospitality experiences associated with the Rockefeller Tree Lighting often sell out well in advance, especially during peak holiday seasons. Early planning is strongly recommended for future events.
Why the Event Continues to Matter
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting remains one of New York City’s most recognized annual events, blending live entertainment, civic tradition, and global viewership. From the arrival of the tree in Midtown to its weeks-long display, the event continues to serve as a seasonal landmark for residents and visitors alike.
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