The holiday season in New York City has officially arrived with the unveiling of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree 2025. Every year, this world-famous tree turns Rockefeller Plaza into the heart of Christmas — glowing with lights, music, and the joyful energy of millions of visitors from around the world.
The 2025 tree, a stunning 80-foot Norway Spruce, has already captured hearts since its arrival in Manhattan. As excitement builds for the official lighting ceremony later this month, here’s a complete, easy-to-read guide to everything you need to know about the Rockefeller Christmas Tree 2025 — from its journey and lighting date to its history, performers, and sustainability story.
When and Where the Tree Arrived
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree 2025 arrived in New York City on Saturday, November 9, 2025, after traveling nearly 200 miles from Glens Falls, New York, in the state’s Adirondack region.
This year’s tree was donated by the MacIntyre family, who said they were “honored” to have their tree chosen for such a cherished holiday tradition. The massive spruce is estimated to be 85 years old, weighs around 12 tons, and measures 80 feet tall and 50 feet wide.
The journey began before dawn on a flatbed truck specially designed to carry large trees. Escorted by New York police, the spruce made its way into the city, drawing crowds of onlookers as it entered Midtown Manhattan.
By the afternoon, cranes lifted the tree into position in front of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, where it now towers over the plaza’s skating rink and Channel Gardens. As soon as it was secured, Rockefeller Center’s team of decorators began preparing it for the grand lighting ceremony.
Rockefeller Christmas Tree 2025 Lighting Date and Time
The official Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2025 will take place on Wednesday, November 27, 2025, starting at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
This year marks the 93rd annual lighting ceremony, continuing a beloved New York City holiday tradition that began back in 1933. The event will be broadcast live across the U.S. on NBC and streamed on Peacock, bringing the magic of the tree to viewers everywhere.
If you plan to attend in person, arrive early — thousands of visitors fill Rockefeller Plaza hours before the ceremony begins. The best viewing spots are between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, and 48th to 51st Streets.
How Long the Tree Will Be on Display
After the lighting, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree 2025 will remain illuminated daily from 5:00 a.m. to midnight through Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
Special hours include:
- Christmas Day: Lit for 24 hours.
- New Year’s Eve: Lights stay on until 9:00 p.m., when Times Square celebrations take over.
When the season ends, the tree will be taken down and donated to Habitat for Humanity, where it will be milled into lumber to help build homes for families in need. This heartwarming tradition has been part of the Rockefeller story since 2007.
Decorations, Lights, and the Iconic Star
Each year, the Rockefeller tree dazzles with thousands of lights, but the 2025 display is particularly breathtaking.
Decorators have strung over 50,000 energy-efficient LED lights — stretching across more than five miles of wire. These multicolored bulbs shimmer and fade in synchronized patterns, creating a magical glow that draws visitors from around the world.
At the very top sits the spectacular Swarovski crystal star, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind. It weighs about 900 pounds and features 3 million hand-cut crystals, each reflecting light in a rainbow of colors.
Lighting designer Paul Warner, who has worked on the tree for years, says this year’s design is meant to evoke “warmth, joy, and reflection.” The LED system uses a special programming pattern that creates a twinkling motion — as if the tree were alive with holiday spirit.
A Look Back: The History of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been a holiday icon for more than nine decades. Its roots stretch back to 1931, when construction workers building Rockefeller Center pooled their money to buy a small tree and decorated it with handmade garlands.
That simple gesture, born during the Great Depression, sparked a tradition of hope that continues today. Two years later, in 1933, the first official lighting ceremony took place — and it’s been a yearly event ever since.
Here are a few fun milestones from the tree’s rich history:
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1931 | The first Rockefeller tree was set up by construction workers. |
| 1951 | The lighting ceremony was televised nationally for the first time. |
| 1999 | The tallest tree ever — 100 feet — was brought from Connecticut. |
| 2007 | The first tree lit entirely with energy-efficient LED lights. |
| 2025 | Marks the 93rd annual lighting and expanded sustainability efforts. |
Over the years, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree has become more than a New York City event — it’s a symbol of light, joy, and unity for millions around the world.
Who’s Performing at the 2025 Lighting Ceremony
Each year, the NBC tree lighting special features some of the biggest names in music — and 2025’s lineup is no exception.
Confirmed performers include:
- Kelly Clarkson, returning with her signature holiday hits.
- John Legend, performing songs from his Christmas album.
- Meghan Trainor, debuting a brand-new holiday single.
- The legendary Radio City Rockettes, performing their classic routines.
Additional guest artists will be revealed closer to the event, ensuring a night of unforgettable performances filled with music, lights, and holiday cheer.
Visiting the Rockefeller Christmas Tree 2025: Travel Tips
Seeing the tree in person is an unforgettable experience, but it’s best to plan ahead. Here are some practical tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable:
- Arrive early. Crowds form long before the lighting begins — sometimes by noon.
- Take public transit. Subways B, D, F, and M all stop at 47–50 Sts–Rockefeller Center.
- Dress warmly. November and December nights in NYC can be cold and windy.
- Avoid large bags. Security screenings are in place, and large items may not be allowed.
- Go early in the morning or late at night. If you’re visiting after the ceremony, these are the best times to avoid crowds and snap the perfect photo.
If you can’t make it in person, you can still catch every sparkling moment on NBC’s televised broadcast or streaming on Peacock.
The Tree’s Sustainable Future
Beyond its beauty, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree 2025 also stands as a symbol of environmental responsibility.
For nearly two decades, Rockefeller Center has worked to make its holiday display more eco-friendly. This year’s efforts include:
- LED lights that use far less energy than traditional bulbs.
- Power sourced partly from solar panels on nearby buildings.
- Tree recycling through Habitat for Humanity to create lumber for new homes.
Even the tree’s journey is eco-conscious. Specialized transport vehicles and equipment are used to minimize environmental impact during harvesting and delivery.
What to Do Around Rockefeller Center During the Holidays
Visiting the tree is only part of the magic. Rockefeller Center and the surrounding Midtown area transform into a holiday wonderland each year. Here are some must-do experiences nearby:
- Ice skating at The Rink: Glide under the tree on one of the most iconic skating rinks in the world.
- Top of the Rock Observation Deck: Enjoy stunning winter views of the Manhattan skyline.
- Fifth Avenue holiday windows: See the famous light displays at Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany & Co., and other landmarks.
- Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Watch the legendary Rockettes in their festive annual show.
- Holiday dining: Enjoy seasonal menus at The Rainbow Room, Del Frisco’s Grille, or Rockefeller Café overlooking the rink.
Every corner of Rockefeller Plaza shines with lights, decorations, and music, making it one of the most magical spots to visit during the holidays.
Fun Facts About the 2025 Rockefeller Christmas Tree
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Norway Spruce |
| Height | 80 feet |
| Width | 50 feet |
| Weight | 12 tons |
| Origin | Glens Falls, New York |
| Age | 85 years |
| Lights | 50,000 LEDs |
| Star | 900 pounds, 3 million Swarovski crystals |
| Display Dates | Nov. 27, 2025 – Jan. 6, 2026 |
| After Display | Donated to Habitat for Humanity |
Each year’s tree is different, but 2025’s Norway Spruce is already being praised for its perfect shape, lush green color, and classic Christmas silhouette.
The Heart and Meaning of the Rockefeller Tree
For millions of people, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree 2025 represents more than twinkling lights — it’s a celebration of unity, hope, and togetherness.
From families visiting for the first time to lifelong New Yorkers who come back year after year, the tree has become a symbol of joy that connects generations. It’s a reminder that even in a busy city, the holidays bring everyone together under one brilliant glow.
As the lights shine across Manhattan this season, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree continues to represent what makes the holidays truly special — community, kindness, and the spirit of giving.
Will you be visiting the Rockefeller Christmas Tree 2025 this year? Share your plans or favorite memories in the comments below — we’d love to hear how this New York tradition brightens your holiday season!