Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: 2025 complete NYC guide
Welcome to the complete guide for the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree 2025 in New York City. The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center, along with the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, remains the top symbol of the holiday season in NYC. In this article, you will discover everything you need to know about this iconic NYC Holiday Tree in 2025. We’ll cover key details such as when the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree arrives, when it goes down, and the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. You’ll also find essential info on tickets, hours, and the full schedule to visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree 2025.
In this article of the NYC Christmas Blog, you’ll also find tips on where to stand to see the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony 2025 in NYC. The NYC Christmas Blog about the Rockefeller Holiday Tree 2025 is packed with useful information to help you plan your New York trip during the holiday season.
And if you are looking for more inspiration, don’t miss our full guide to Christmas in New York. It features the best things to do, top tours, festive hotels, and much more: Christmas in New York 2025 – Best Things to Do.
Don’t miss out on the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Christmas in New York is full of magical moments, and you will love them all.
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Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree 2025: the most iconic NYC symbol
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree 2025 is the most famous symbol of the holiday season in New York. When thinking of Christmas in New York, one of the first things that comes to mind is always the Lighting of this famous Christmas Tree. Every year, the most famous Christmas Tree in NYC is adorned with over 50,000 lights. Millions of visitors from around the world come to New York to take a photo with this iconic Holiday Tree. This Holiday Tree in Midtown Manhattan is as iconic as the Macy’s Christmas Windows in New York.
In this article, we’ll provide all the information you need to visit this beloved New York holiday landmark. We will cover the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in New York, a highlight of the 2025 holiday season. The New York Tree lighting usually features international stars and the dazzling Rockettes from the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.
But first, we’ll explore the arrival of the Christmas Tree in Manhattan. This exciting event marks the official start of the Christmas season in New York.
Where is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
The most famous Christmas Tree 2025 is located at Rockefeller Plaza in Midtown Manhattan. The exact address is 30 Rockefeller Plaza, between West 49th and 50th Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues. The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center stands in the heart of New York City, making it easily accessible to both tourists and locals. The popular Papillon NYC Christmas Restaurant is just five minutes away—don’t miss it!
If you’re traveling by subway, the 47-50 Sts – Rockefeller Center Station (served by the B, D, F, and M lines) is the closest stop. Simply exit the station and head north for one block to reach the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Alternatively, you can use the 5th Ave/53rd St Station (E and M lines). From there, it’s a five-minute walk southwest to the tree.
Many iconic New York attractions surround the Christmas Tree. Visit the Top of the Rock Observation Deck for breathtaking views of the city skyline. Radio City Music Hall, home of the Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes, is just around the corner from the NYC Christmas Tree. A short stroll brings you to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, an architectural marvel. Behind it, don’t miss the Lotte New York Palace Christmas Tree.
For festive shopping and entertainment, head to Bryant Park Winter Village, which features an ice-skating rink, holiday shops, and delicious food stalls. Finally, the dazzling holiday window displays at Saks Fifth Avenue—just across the street—complete the magical holiday experience around the world’s most beautiful Christmas Tree.
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will arrive in NYC on November 8th or 15th
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in NYC traditionally arrives on a Saturday. The tree usually reaches Midtown Manhattan early in the morning. Around 10 a.m., workers hoist the Christmas Tree into position on Rockefeller Plaza. The exact date remains a well-kept secret until just before the event. When the tree arrives, it’s a true celebration—Santa often makes an appearance, and a giant crane lifts the tree into place. This iconic event typically happens about two weeks before the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. It draws thousands of New Yorkers and visitors eager to witness one of the most magical moments of the holiday season.
On arrival day, the Rockefeller Tree is carefully removed from the transport truck. Next, the famous holiday tree is hoisted with the help of a large crane. The entire process takes about two hours. At the end of the ceremony, small pieces of tree branches are sometimes given to spectators. This offers a special memento of the NYC Holiday Tree to take home. If you are visiting New York in mid-November 2025, don’t miss the chance to experience the arrival of the spectacular Christmas Tree at the Rockefeller Center.
After the hoisting ceremony, workers cover the 2025 Christmas Tree with scaffolding. This marks the start of about two weeks of intricate decoration. Over 50,000 lights will be installed, preparing the tree for the highly anticipated lighting ceremony.
As you can see, when the Christmas tree goes up in Rockefeller Center does not mean it is lit on that day. Keep reading for the complete Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree 2025 timeline.
When does the Rockefeller Tree go up
The 2025 Rockefeller Christmas Tree is expected to arrive in New York on November 8 or November 15, 2025. On this day, workers will hoist the most iconic NYC holiday symbol right in front of the famous Rockefeller Center ice skating rink. The arrival and hoisting ceremony is one of the most anticipated moments of the Christmas season in New York. Thousands of people gather at Rockefeller Plaza to witness the tree’s arrival.
Will you be in New York in mid-November, when the most famous Christmas tree is expected to go up? If so, plan to visit Rockefeller Plaza early in the morning. If you are wondering when the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree goes up, you should know that the hoisting ceremony typically starts at 7 a.m. Workers usually take three to four hours to fully position the tree.
After the hoisting ceremony ends, the Rockefeller Center team begins decorating the Christmas Tree. Continue reading the following sections to discover the full Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree 2025 timeline and what happens next.
How tall is the tree at Rockefeller
This iconic NYC holiday tree is a towering symbol of holiday spirit and tradition in New York City. The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center is usually a Norway spruce standing between 69 and 100 feet (21 to 30 meters) tall. Each year, this majestic tree delights millions of visitors with its beauty and grandeur.
The selection process for the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is very meticulous. Once a tree is selected, usually from the northeastern United States, a crane supports it during cutting. Workers then carefully transport the tree on a custom telescoping trailer, designed to handle trees up to 125 feet (38 meters) tall. However, due to the narrow streets around Rockefeller Center, the Christmas Tree cannot exceed 100 feet (30 meters) in height.
The tradition of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree dates back to 1931. During the construction of Rockefeller Center, Italian-American workers erected a modest 20-foot (6.1 meters) balsam fir on Christmas Eve. They decorated it with cranberries, paper garlands, and even tin cans. This simple gesture marked the beginning of a cherished NYC holiday tradition.
In 1933, the first official Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree was lit. It was 50 feet (15 meters) tall and quickly became a beloved NYC holiday symbol. By 1936, the skating rink below the Christmas Tree was introduced, adding even more festive charm.
The tallest Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree ever displayed was a 100-foot (30 meters) spruce from Killingworth, Connecticut, in 1999. The Christmas Tree remains a powerful symbol of resilience and joy in New York City.
Scaffolding will cover the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree for 2-3 weeks
If you’re in New York in mid-November, during this traditional Christmas tree process, you’ll find the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree completely covered with scaffolding. In fact, workers will be busy decorating it with over 50,000 multicolored LED lights. This iconic tradition continues to captivate millions of visitors every year.
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, typically a Norway spruce over 80 feet tall, will be meticulously adorned with lights and topped with a Swarovski crystal star. This star, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, features over 3 million crystals and 70 glass spikes. It emits an impressive 106,000 lumens, helping to turn night into day.
During the decoration period, workers are often generous with giving away branches that fall off during the process. Simply approach the barricades of the Rockefeller Center Holiday Tree and ask for a keepsake branch. It’s a cherished souvenir, especially for those who adore holiday traditions.
The official lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 3, 2025. The tree is always lit on the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving. In 2025, Thanksgiving falls on November 27, so the Lighting Ceremony is expected on December 3. The tree will be lit at 10 PM. Marco from @MyChristmasinNewYorkCity will cover the Lighting Ceremony and more about the most famous Christmas tree in the world live and in real time.
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree 2025 will be lit daily until mid-January, providing ample time to enjoy its brilliance. This Holiday Tree in Midtown Manhattan is not only a symbol of the season but also a testament to New York City’s resilience and festive spirit.
The NYC Holiday Tree will be free from scaffoldings from November 27
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, one of New York City’s most iconic holiday landmarks, will be free from scaffolding by November 27, 2025, at the latest. This ensures that the tree is visible for the busy Thanksgiving weekend, when thousands of visitors flock to Rockefeller Plaza. The scaffolding usually comes down just a few days before, typically after the Saks Fifth Avenue Lights Show Opening Ceremony—if it takes place this year. In 2024, there was no official Saks light show for the first time.
Once the workers have meticulously decorated the tree with over 50,000 multicolored LED lights and placed the Swarovski crystal star atop, the tree will be ready to shine brightly, marking the official start of the holiday season.
However, it’s important to note that although the Rockefeller Christmas Tree will be free from scaffolding by November 27, it will remain unlit until the official lighting ceremony. For those in New York between November 27 and December 3, it won’t yet be possible to admire the illuminated tree. The first opportunity to see the tree glowing with its dazzling 50,000 lights will be on December 3, 2025, the night of the lighting ceremony.
Visitors should mark their calendars for this magical moment when the 2025 Rockefeller Christmas Tree, free from scaffolding, will finally illuminate Rockefeller Plaza and kick off the festive spirit of New York City’s holiday season. NBC will broadcast the lighting ceremony, which typically features performances by celebrities and The Rockettes.
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be on December 3
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting 2025 is an iconic Christmas event. It marks the official start of the holiday season in New York City.
The Rockefeller Lighting Ceremony 2025 will take place on December 3, 2025. This follows the tradition of holding the event on the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving. This year, Thanksgiving falls on November 27, which leads to the selection of December 3 for this beloved holiday event.
The Christmas Tree will be lit precisely at 9:57 PM. However, the event, which features high-profile international guests, begins around 7 PM. If you want to attend the ceremony in person, it is important not to arrive at the last minute. Every year, thousands of people gather to watch this event live. Those who want a front-row spot often arrive in the late morning. Our personal advice is to get to the area around 10 or 11 AM. To secure a good view of the tree, we recommend not arriving after 2 PM. As the day progresses, the streets become very crowded. Arriving around 6 PM or later may result in little or no visibility of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Plan your day carefully to enjoy the best possible experience at this magical event.
Schedule of the 2025 Holiday Tree from December 4 to early January
The lights on the Rockefeller Tree will be on every day between December 4, 2025, and early January 2026. The Holiday Tree in New York will be lit daily from 5 AM to midnight. On December 24, the tree remains lit for 24 hours. On New Year’s Eve, the lights are turned off at 9 PM.
Want to take memorable photos of the Rockefeller Center Holiday Tree? We recommend visiting this iconic NYC holiday tree early in the morning. Around 5 or 6 AM, there are very few people in front of the tree. This gives you a great chance to capture special souvenir photos to share with friends and family after your Christmas trip to New York.
In addition, if you stand in front of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree at 5 AM sharp, you can witness the tree lighting without crowds. Each day, the lights are switched on precisely at 5 AM. This gives you the opportunity to take a video showing the tree first without lights, and then as it illuminates, without the usual crowds. We highly recommend trying this during your 2025 Christmas visit to New York.
Do I Need Tickets to Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
No, you don’t need tickets to visit the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. This beloved New York holiday landmark is free for everyone to enjoy. The lights on the tree are switched on at 5 AM and stay illuminated until midnight, except on December 31, when the lights are turned off at 9 PM, and on Christmas Eve, when the tree remains lit for 24 hours.
Keep in mind that if you plan to visit the Rockefeller Tree in the evening, you will likely encounter large crowds. Thousands of visitors flock to see the tree after dark, creating a lively but packed atmosphere. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning. Arriving around 5 or 6 AM lets you witness the magical moment when the tree lights up for the day. This offers the perfect opportunity to take photos without the crowds. The calm and serene early hours will give you an unforgettable view of this dazzling holiday tree. It will make your Christmas trip to New York City even more special.
Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2025 Tickets
Are you wondering if you can buy tickets for the Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2025 ceremony? The answer is no, you do not need tickets. Attending the ceremony is free, and tickets are not available for purchase. However, keep in mind that if you want to attend the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, you will need to arrive very early.
In past years, we have noticed that many people arrive at Rockefeller Plaza around lunchtime. This is the best time to secure a good view of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and the performing cast. If you arrive later than that, it is very likely that you won’t be able to stand near the Holiday Tree. It is also important to remember that once you are in position for the ceremony, you cannot move. Be prepared, it’s going to be a long wait. This is because Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2025 tickets are not available.
What time is the Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2025?
The Rockefeller Tree Lighting ceremony starts at around 7 PM. However, to witness the famous countdown and the lighting of the 50,000 lights on the most famous Christmas Tree, you will need to wait until 10 PM. The Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2025 ceremony is expected to last about three hours. During this time, famous singers and the Rockettes will perform.
Each year, the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony features a special host to present the event. In 2024 for example, it was Kelly Clarkson hosting the event, and the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony was a huge success. We look forward to celebrating the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting together on December 3, 2025.
Conclusion: The most famous Holiday Tree in New York City
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see symbol of the holiday season in New York City. From the moment it arrives in Midtown Manhattan in mid-November to the magical lighting ceremony on December 3 and its daily illuminations until early January, the tree captivates millions of visitors from around the world. Adorned with over 50,000 multicolored lights and crowned with a stunning Swarovski crystal star, this Norway spruce is the ultimate holiday icon.
Whether you’re planning to attend the lighting ceremony in person, take photos early in the morning, or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere around Rockefeller Plaza, this guide provides everything you need to make the most of your visit. Remember, tickets aren’t required to see the tree up close. However, arriving early ensures the best views and the chance to witness the dazzling tree lighting at 5 AM without the crowds.
Surrounded by iconic attractions like the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Radio City Music Hall, and the Bryant Park Winter Village, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree embodies the spirit and joy of the holidays in New York City.
So, bundle up, grab your camera, and immerse yourself in this magical tradition. This Holiday Tree is not only the symbol of the season but also a testament to New York City’s resilience and festive spirit. The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is waiting to brighten your holiday season!
Discover More Christmas Magic in New York City
Planning your trip to New York this holiday season? Our full guide to Christmas in New York 2025 features the very best things to do, top tours, festive hotels, Christmas markets, and more. Don’t miss it — start exploring here: Christmas in New York 2025 – Best Things to Do.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree 2025
When does the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree 2025 go up?
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree 2025 is expected to go up in Midtown Manhattan on November 8 or November 15, 2025.
When is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony?
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on December 3, 2025, the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving.
What time does the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree light each day?
The tree lights up daily at 5 AM and stays illuminated until midnight. On Christmas Eve, it remains lit for 24 hours. On December 31 (New Year’s Eve), the lights are turned off at 9 PM.
Do I need tickets to see the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
No, visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is free. No tickets are required to see the tree or attend the Lighting Ceremony.
How long will the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree be on display?
The tree will remain on display from early December 2025 until early January 2026.
Where is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree located?
The tree is located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, between West 49th and 50th Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues, in Midtown Manhattan.
What is the best time to visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
For fewer crowds, visit early in the morning around 5 or 6 AM. Evening visits offer magical views but can be very crowded.
What is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree decorated with?
The tree is adorned with over 50,000 multicolored LED lights and topped with a stunning Swarovski crystal star.
What happens to the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree afterwards?
After the display period ends in early January, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is donated to Habitat for Humanity. The tree is milled into lumber and used to help build homes for families in need.
Author: Written by Dora Formica on behalf of My Christmas in New York
