Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting is an absolute must-see. Whether you’ve witnessed its grandeur before or if it’s your first time, this year’s event promises an unforgettable experience! Before you finally see it, know about their exciting preparations for this year’s festivities below–
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting 2023
Get ready to jingle all the way as the grandeur of the holiday season descends upon the heart of New York City. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is about to cast its enchanting glow, and you won’t want to be a Grinch and miss out on this spectacular event. Join us as we unwrap the details of this iconic NYC tradition that has been spreading festive cheer for almost a century.
The Main Event:
Every year, thousands of New Yorkers and tourists alike gather at the dazzling nexus of Rockefeller Center for the grand unveiling of the Christmas tree. This towering symbol of Yuletide joy, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, steals the spotlight just a few days after Thanksgiving. It’s more than just a tree lighting; it’s a magical experience that beckons you to ice-skate, savor hot cocoa, and capture memories against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rockefeller Center tree.
Date and Special Ceremony:
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 29, 2023, when the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree will come to life in a special ceremony. The live national broadcast, featuring fantastic performers and live music, kicks off at 8 pm, hosted by the likes of Kelly Clarkson, Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, Al Roker, and Craig Melvin. The tree itself will illuminate just before 10 pm, and you can catch the broadcast on NBC 4 and Peacock.
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Location:
The Rockefeller Center tree lighting ceremony unfolds between 49th and 50th Streets in Manhattan, creating a festive atmosphere that is quintessentially New York.
Featured Performers:
Kelly Clarkson takes the stage as the host of the show, accompanied by “TODAY” co-anchors Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, Al Roker, and Craig Melvin. Stay tuned for more exciting announcements about additional performers who will grace the stage.
Visiting the Rockefeller Center Tree:
The holiday magic continues well into January as the tree remains lit daily from 5 am to midnight. On Christmas Day, it sparkles around the clock, and on New Year’s Eve, revel in its brilliance from 5 am to 9 pm.
The Majestic Tree:
This year’s centerpiece, a colossal Norway Spruce hailing from the Binghamton area, stands proud at 80 feet tall, boasting a diameter of 43 feet and weighing a whopping 12 tons. Over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights adorn its branches, leading up to a spectacular three-dimensional Swarovski star designed by architect Daniel Libeskind in 2018. The star, weighing 900 pounds and bedazzled with 3 million crystals, crowns the tree in radiant splendor.
Historical Roots:
The tradition of the Rockefeller Center tree lighting traces its roots back to 1931 when construction workers, in the midst of building Rockefeller Center, decided to brighten the site with a Christmas tree. Two years later, in 1933, the first formal Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony was held, featuring a tree adorned with 700 lights. Dive deeper into the fascinating history of this cherished tradition that has been illuminating the hearts of New Yorkers for nearly a century.
Final Words
As the holiday spirit blankets the city in a festive glow, don’t miss your chance to be part of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 2023. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this enchanting event promises to be a highlight of your holiday season. Join us in celebrating the magic, history, and splendor of this iconic tradition that continues to bring joy and warmth to the heart of New York City.