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Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

Join the magic as we illuminate the night! The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting is an event wrapped in joy and tradition.

Wednesday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATERockefeller Center Tree Lighting (Thanksgiving + 6)

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYSeasonal

SUBCATEGORYWinter

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to usher in the holiday season with the splendid Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting happening on December 1! This spectacle of lights and joy is a tradition that dates back to the Great Depression era. During those challenging times, the first tree was put up by construction workers simply looking to bring some Christmas cheer. Today, it's become a star-studded occasion, and thousands flock to witness the many thousands of LED lights bring the magnificent Norway Spruce to life. It's a magical spectacle that truly captures the spirit of the season and is at the heart of New York City's Christmas festivities. As we illuminate the night on December 1, we cherish not only the dazzling tree but also the symbol of prosperity, hope, and resilience it represents.

TIMELINE

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Timeline

First Christmas Tree Erected

In the midst of the Great Depression, construction workers put up a small Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center construction site, marking the beginning of a long-standing tradition.

First Formal Tree Lighting

The first formal tree lighting took place in 1933 once Rockefeller Plaza was open to the public. This event signaled the beginning of a cherished tradition.

Television Broadcast Begins

The tree lighting ceremony was broadcast for the first time on national television on "The Kate Smith Show," sharing this joyful tradition with millions of viewers.

LED Lights Introduced

In an effort to promote energy efficiency, LED lights were introduced to illuminate the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.

Solar Energy Utilized

Solar panels installed on the roof of the Rockefeller Center building were used for the first time to help power the Christmas tree's lights.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

Host a watch party

Invite friends over to revel in the Rockefeller Center Tree lighting ceremony. You can serve hot chocolate, Christmas cookies, and other festive foods while watching the spectacle live on television.

GET

Get crafty

In anticipation of the event, make your own tree decorations and ornaments inspired by those you will see on The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This can be a fun activity to engage children and create keepsakes for years to come.

ATTEND

Attend the ceremony

If you live in New York or plan to visit the city, consider attending the ceremony in person. Witnessing the moment when the magnificent Norway Spruce is lit up with thousands of LED lights is an amazing experience.

RECREATE

Recreate the tree at home

Create a mini version of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in your own home. Adorn your chosen tree with LED lights and decorations, mirroring the grand tree to mark the festive occasion.

Share your memories

Capture your personal experience attending or celebrating the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting through a blog post, video, or social media post. Share the joy with those who couldn't make it to witness this magical event.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

Inspires Creativity and Celebration

From hosting a watch party, creating your own Christmas decorations inspired by the tree, to recreating a mini version of it at home - the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting ignites a creative spark in us. It encourages us to celebrate in our own unique ways, fostering a spirit of kinship and warm-heartedness.

Tradition and History

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting has been a beloved holiday tradition since the times of the Great Depression. There's something incredible about participating in a tradition that has brought joy and festivity to generations, essentially making us part of a prolonged historical event.

Symbol of Unity and Joy

In the cold winter night, the lighting of the grand tree stands as a symbol of unity, resilience and shared happiness. No matter where you watch it from - either from your home or right at the Rockefeller Center - it's an amazing way to kickoff the holiday season with joy and anticipation.