New York City is gearing up for one of its most beloved holiday traditions—the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. The annual event, known as “Christmas in Rockefeller Center,” signifies the official start of the Christmas season for many, and this year marks its 92nd iteration. Hosted once again by Kelly Clarkson, the tree lighting ceremony promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
This year’s stunning centerpiece is an 11-ton Norway spruce, towering at 74 feet tall and spanning 43 feet wide. The behemoth tree, which made its way from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, is particularly special as it is the first tree from the state to be featured since 1959. It will be adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights, which are expected to create a dazzling display for the thousands of spectators expected to attend.
The festivities for “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” kick off on Wednesday, December 4, at 8 p.m. ET and promise to be filled with memorable performances from top artists. This year’s lineup is star-studded, including iconic acts like the Backstreet Boys, Dan + Shay, Jennifer Hudson, and the ever-popular Radio City Rockettes. Also scheduled to perform are Megan Hilty, Coco Jones, Little Big Town, RAYE, and Thalia, making it evident there’s something for everyone.
Attendees usually gather at Rockefeller Plaza long before the lights are turned on, creating a distinctive festive atmosphere characterized by holiday cheer, music, and excitement. For those unable to attend, NBC will air the event live, giving everyone the opportunity to partake in this cherished New York City tradition.
Want to watch the event from the comfort of your home? You’re in luck! It’s pretty easy to catch the broadcast without subscribing to traditional cable. Streaming services like DirecTV Stream, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling will offer NBC, making it accessible to anyone with internet access. Plus, if you miss the live event, you can catch the replay the following day on Peacock, NBC’s streaming platform.
Watching “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” can become part of your holiday tradition, where families can tune in, kick back, and enjoy the music and the festive ambience. For those interested, Kelly Clarkson's hosting brings her special charm, promised to uplift and engage with songs likely to become instant holiday favorites.
So, mark your calendars for December 4, and don’t miss out on this sparkling celebration of the holiday spirit! The tree will shine brightly as it has for generations, symbolizing joy, peace, and the magic of the Christmas season. Whether you’re watching live or streaming it later, make sure to soak up the joyous atmosphere of “Christmas in Rockefeller Center.”
