The annual lighting of the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center in New York City is scheduled for the evening of December 4, 2024. This beloved tradition will take place following a brief coastal storm, with clear skies anticipated for the event. The ceremony promises to be a highlight of the holiday season, featuring live performances from renowned artists and a festive atmosphere.
This year’s ceremony will be hosted by country music star Reba McEntire and will begin at 20:00 local time. Performers include Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, Kristin Chenoweth, Laufey, New Edition, Brad Paisley, and Carly Pearce. The moment the lights illuminate the tree is expected to occur just before 22:00.
Tree Details and Viewing Information
The iconic Norway Spruce, which stands approximately 75 feet tall and weighs 11 tons, was cut down on November 6, 2024, in East Greenbush, New York, about 150 miles north of the city. It arrived in Rockefeller Center on November 8. The tree will be adorned with over 50,000 energy-efficient LED lights and topped with a sparkling Swarovski crystal star. Following the holidays, the tree will be repurposed into lumber for Habitat for Humanity.
Following the lighting ceremony, the tree will be on display daily from 05:00 to midnight until mid-January. Notably, on Christmas Eve, it will remain lit for 24 hours, and on New Year’s Eve, it will be illuminated from 05:00 to 21:00. Visitors wishing to experience the tree in person can find it located at 30 Rockefeller Center, positioned between West 49th and West 50th streets in Manhattan.
Transportation and Road Closures
Those planning to attend the event are advised to utilize public transportation, with the closest subway stop being 47th-50th Streets-Rockefeller Center on the B, D, F, and M lines. Attendees should anticipate road closures in the vicinity as the New York Police Department has declared December 4 as the first Gridlock Alert Day of the month. Streets affected include:
– 46th Street between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue
– 47th Street between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue
– 48th Street between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue
– 49th Street between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue
– 50th Street between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue
– 51st Street between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue
– 52nd Street between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue
– Rockefeller Plaza between 48th Street and 51st Street
– 6th Avenue between 46th Street and 52nd Street
– 5th Avenue between 46th Street and 52nd Street
For those interested in additional festivities, tickets are available for the Rockefeller Center ice rink and observation decks. A VIP pass, priced over $300, grants an exclusive tour of the tree along with a champagne toast.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting is a cherished event that has roots dating back to 1931. Initially, it began when construction workers pooled their money to purchase a tree, which was decorated by their families. The first official tree lighting took place two years later. Last year’s tree came from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, marking the first selection from the state since 1959.
As the festivities unfold, this year also celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Radio City Rockettes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening’s performances. The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting continues to be a symbol of holiday spirit and community gathering in New York City.
