Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, New York City
Facts and practical information
In the heart of New York City, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree stands as an iconic beacon of holiday cheer. This majestic tree, a beloved tourist attraction, is not only a symbol of Christmas in the Big Apple but also a testament to the city's capacity for wonder and communal celebration.
Each year, as the holiday season approaches, thousands of spectators from around the world flock to Rockefeller Center to witness the lighting of the Christmas tree. This event marks the unofficial beginning of the holiday season in the city, typically taking place after Thanksgiving in late November or early December.
The tradition of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree dates back to 1931, during the Great Depression, when workers at the Rockefeller Center construction site pooled their money to buy a Christmas tree. Now, the selection of the tree is a meticulous process, with the ideal specimen usually being a Norway spruce, standing at a minimum of 75 feet tall and boasting a breadth of around 45 feet. The chosen tree is often sourced from the northeastern United States and is transported to Manhattan with great fanfare.
Once erected in the plaza, the tree is adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and crowned with a dazzling star. The lighting ceremony is a festive event, complete with live performances, and is broadcast to millions of viewers across the country.
Visitors can marvel at the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree throughout the holiday season, until early January, when it is taken down. The tree is not just a spectacle but also serves a charitable purpose after the holidays; it is milled into lumber and donated to Habitat for Humanity, contributing to the construction of homes for families in need.
Beyond the tree, Rockefeller Center offers a multitude of holiday attractions, including the famous ice-skating rink at its base and the elaborate window displays of nearby Fifth Avenue shops. The tree's location is also adjacent to the Top of the Rock observation deck, providing an opportunity for tourists to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
45 Rockefeller PlzMidtown Manhattan (Midtown East)New York City 10111-0100
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Museum of Modern Art, Rockefeller Center, Saks Fifth Avenue, Radio City Music Hall.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which popular attractions are close to Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
How to get to Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree by public transport?
Bus
- East 49th Street/5th Avenue • Lines: M50 (1 min walk)
- East 50th Street/5th Avenue • Lines: M50 (2 min walk)
Metro
- 47th–50th Streets–Rockefeller Center • Lines: <F>, B, D, F, M (4 min walk)
- 53rd Street–5th Avenue • Lines: E, M (6 min walk)
Train
- Grand Central Terminal (11 min walk)
- New York Penn Station (25 min walk)