URGENT UPDATE: The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree will be illuminated tonight, signaling the start of the holiday season in New York City. The lighting ceremony is set to take place just before 10 PM, drawing crowds eager to witness this beloved annual tradition.
This year’s tree, a magnificent 75-foot-tall Norway Spruce, hails from a home in East Greenbush, New York. Donated by Judy Ross in memory of her late husband and family members, the tree has a rich history, having been planted by her husband’s great-grandparents in the 1920s.
The tree will be adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and topped with a stunning 900-pound Swarovski star, making it a dazzling centerpiece for holiday festivities. As the lighting ceremony approaches, street closures will begin around Rockefeller Center, impacting traffic and transit options.
In anticipation of the event, authorities are advising drivers to expect extensive delays across Manhattan during designated Gridlock Alert Days. New Yorkers are encouraged to utilize public transportation, including regional rail lines, the subway, buses, and ferries, as well as cycling and walking to navigate the city.
The tradition of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree dates back to 1931, initially set up to uplift spirits during the Great Depression. The first tree, a modest 20-foot balsam fir, was decorated with handmade garlands crafted by the workers’ families. The first official tree-lighting ceremony was held in 1933, establishing a cherished holiday ritual.
As the countdown to tonight’s lighting begins, excitement is building among locals and tourists alike. This year marks another chapter in the ongoing legacy of hope and joy that the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree represents, reminding everyone of the spirit of the season.
Stay tuned for live updates and be part of the festive atmosphere as the tree lights up New York City tonight!
