NEW YORK – This Wednesday evening, thousands gathered at Rockefeller Center in New York City for the traditional holiday tree lighting ceremony, a spectacle that has become synonymous with the city’s festive spirit. The event proceeded smoothly despite a tragic shooting nearby earlier in the day, highlighting the community’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Kelly Clarkson hosted the ceremony, which began at 8 p.m. and featured live music and performances, including a lively set from the Backstreet Boys. The much-anticipated moment of the tree lighting occurred just before 10 p.m., bringing joy and awe to the crowd.
Spectators began arriving as early as 4 p.m. to secure a good spot, entering at designated entrances along Sixth Avenue. Among the attendees was the Eller family, visiting from North Carolina, celebrating the holidays in New York for the first time with their young children. “They did really good. We got them to stop screaming,” remarked Tia Eller, reflecting the excitement and the bustling atmosphere. Another attendee, Josie Free from Alabama, shared her enthusiasm, stating, “I always watch it on TV and record it, so it’s exciting.”
The iconic Rockefeller Center tree, a stunning Norway Spruce from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, stands 74 feet tall and weighs an impressive 11 tons. It is adorned with over 50,000 colorful lights on five miles of wiring, culminating in a spectacular Swarovski star that weighs 900 pounds and is embellished with 3 million crystals.
Visitors can enjoy the tree from 5 a.m. to midnight until mid-January, with special lighting on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. For those keen on experiencing winter festivities, tickets are available for ice skating and access to observation decks, including a VIP pass for an exclusive tree tour.
The tradition of the Rockefeller Center tree lighting dates back to 1931, when workers collaborated to decorate a smaller tree. Since then, it has grown into a cherished event, marking the holiday season for New Yorkers and visitors alike.
In a time when community gatherings are more precious than ever, this year’s tree lighting not only showcased a stunning display of holiday cheer but also illustrated the enduring spirit of togetherness and celebration, turning a challenging day into a memorable night for many.
Summary: The Rockefeller Center tree lighting ceremony took place amidst a backdrop of tragedy but highlighted community spirit, featuring performances by Kelly Clarkson and the Backstreet Boys. The Norway Spruce, hailing from Massachusetts, is decorated with over 50,000 lights, and the event marks a longstanding holiday tradition, reinforcing a sense of unity and joy during the festive season.