NEW YORK — On Wednesday night, thousands gathered at Rockefeller Center in New York City for the highly anticipated annual holiday tree lighting ceremony. Despite the tragic shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson that occurred nearby earlier in the day, the event proceeded smoothly and brought joy to attendees.
Kelly Clarkson graced the ceremony as this year’s host, kicking off the festivities at 8 p.m. with a lineup of live performances that included beloved groups like the Backstreet Boys. The magical moment of the lights being turned on took place just before 10 p.m., illuminating the towering tree and delighting the crowd.
Visitors arrived at the venue as early as 4 p.m., entering through designated points along Sixth Avenue. Families, such as the Eller family from North Carolina, relished the experience, bringing their young children to witness their first holiday celebration in New York City. Tia Eller expressed her delight, saying, “They did really good. We got them to stop screaming,” while others shared their excitement about seeing the display in person rather than on television.
The Rockefeller Center tree is set to remain lit from 5 a.m. to midnight daily through mid-January, with special extended hours on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Located at 30 Rockefeller Center, visitors using public transportation can reach the site through the 47th-50th Streets-Rockefeller Center stop on the B, D, F, and M lines. Guests can also purchase tickets for a memorable ice skating experience or enjoy a breathtaking view from the observation decks.
This year’s Norway Spruce, a notable 74 feet tall and weighing 11 tons, hails from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, marking the first selection from the state since 1959. The tree, approximately 70 years old, was adorned with over 50,000 vibrant lights knitted together with five miles of wire, topped with a striking 900-pound Swarovski star made of 3 million crystals.
The Rockefeller Center tree lighting tradition dates back to 1931 when workers at the site came together to buy their own Christmas tree, decorated with homemade garlands. This cherished event has evolved, with the first official lighting taking place just two years later. Notably, December 1999 holds the record for the largest tree ever displayed — a remarkable 100-footer from Killingworth, Connecticut.
As we enter the holiday season, the Rockefeller Center tree lighting reminds us of the enduring spirit of togetherness, bringing joy to families and friends in an atmosphere filled with light and love.
Summary: The annual Rockefeller Center tree lighting drew thousands to celebrate the holiday spirit, even as the city faced tragedy earlier in the day. Host Kelly Clarkson and performers such as the Backstreet Boys enchanted attendees as they witnessed the grand illumination of a 74-foot Norway Spruce adorned with over 50,000 lights. The event reflects a long-standing tradition and offers a festive experience that continues to uplift the community during the holiday season.