The annual lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in New York City is scheduled for tonight, December 4, 2024. This cherished tradition will begin at 20:00 local time, following a coastal storm that brought heavy rain to the area. Fortunately, forecasts indicate clear skies for the evening, providing an ideal backdrop for the festivities.
Reba McEntire will host the ceremony, which promises an exciting lineup of live music and performances. Notable artists including Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, Kristin Chenoweth, Laufey, New Edition, Brad Paisley, and Carly Pearce are set to take the stage. The lights on the tree will be illuminated shortly before 22:00, culminating in a festive celebration that draws thousands of spectators each year.
Visitor Information and Tree Details
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree will remain illuminated daily from 05:00 to midnight until mid-January. On Christmas Eve, the tree will shine continuously for 24 hours, while on New Year’s Eve, the lights will be on from 05:00 to 21:00. Located at 30 Rockefeller Center between West 49th and West 50th Streets in Manhattan, the tree is easily accessible via public transport; visitors should use the 47th-50th Streets-Rockefeller Center stop on the B, D, F, and M subway lines.
For those looking to experience the iconic ice rink or the observation decks, tickets are available for purchase. A VIP pass priced over $300 offers an exclusive close-up tour of the tree, complete with a champagne toast.
This year’s tree, a majestic Norway Spruce, was cut down on November 6 in East Greenbush, New York, approximately 150 miles north of the city. Weighing an impressive 11 tons and standing around 75 feet tall, the tree, over 60 years old, arrived at Rockefeller Center on November 8. It is adorned with more than 50,000 energy-efficient LED lights and topped with a dazzling Swarovski crystal star. After the holiday season concludes, the tree will be removed and repurposed into lumber for Habitat for Humanity, continuing its legacy of community support.
A Rich History and Road Closures
The lighting of the Rockefeller Center tree dates back to 1931, when a group of construction workers pooled their resources to purchase a Christmas tree. The first official lighting took place two years later, marking the beginning of a beloved holiday tradition. The record for the largest tree was set in December 1999, with a stunning 100-foot tree sourced from Killingworth, Connecticut. Last year’s tree came from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, marking the first selection from that state since 1959.
As the event draws near, the NYPD has announced several road closures surrounding Rockefeller Center to accommodate the anticipated crowd. The following streets will be closed from 16:00 onwards:
– 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
As the evening unfolds, the Rockefeller Center tree lighting stands as a symbol of holiday spirit, drawing visitors from around the world to celebrate the season in one of New York City’s most iconic locations.
