When Exactly Are They Lighting The Rockefeller Tree This Year?

AvatarByAlison Socha Lighting Fixtures & Electrical

As the holiday season approaches, one of the most anticipated events in New York City captures the attention of locals and visitors alike: the lighting of the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. This sparkling spectacle has become a beloved tradition, symbolizing the start of festive celebrations and bringing a sense of warmth and joy to millions around the world. But when exactly does this magical moment take place, and what makes the event so special year after year?

The Rockefeller Tree Lighting ceremony is more than just a simple switch-on; it’s a dazzling display of holiday spirit, complete with live performances, celebrity appearances, and a vibrant crowd gathered in the heart of Manhattan. Each year, the timing and details of the event generate excitement and curiosity, as people eagerly await the announcement of the official date. Understanding the schedule and significance of the lighting helps fans plan their visit or tune in from afar to experience the enchantment.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the timing of the Rockefeller Tree Lighting, the traditions that surround it, and why this event continues to hold a cherished place in holiday celebrations. Whether you’re a first-time observer or a seasoned fan, discovering when and how the tree is lit adds an extra layer of anticipation to the festive season.

Timing of the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting ceremony traditionally takes place in early December, marking the official start of the holiday season in New York City. The event is typically scheduled for the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving, aligning with the city’s festive calendar and maximizing public attendance. This timing allows ample opportunity for visitors and locals alike to enjoy the tree throughout the holiday period, which extends until early January.

The exact date can vary slightly year to year due to scheduling considerations, television broadcasting arrangements, and other logistical factors. The lighting ceremony is a highly anticipated event, often broadcast nationally and featuring live performances, celebrity appearances, and a countdown culminating in the illumination of the tree’s thousands of lights.

Details of the Lighting Event

The ceremony is a vibrant celebration that includes a variety of entertainment elements designed to enhance the festive atmosphere. Key features of the event include:

  • Live musical performances by well-known artists, often representing diverse genres
  • Appearances by celebrities and public figures who participate in the countdown
  • Community and charity involvement, highlighting the event’s philanthropic aspects
  • A countdown to the moment the tree is illuminated, creating a sense of communal excitement

Following the ceremony, the tree remains lit daily from around 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM, offering a stunning visual spectacle for visitors. The lights are typically LED, chosen for their energy efficiency and vibrant color display.

Historical Context and Scheduling Patterns

Historically, the lighting ceremony has been held within the first two weeks of December, although there have been exceptions due to extraordinary circumstances such as extreme weather or public health considerations. The ceremony’s timing is carefully coordinated to:

  • Maximize attendance and media coverage
  • Coordinate with other holiday events in New York City, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and various winter festivals
  • Allow for the tree’s display during peak tourist periods, including Christmas and New Year’s holidays
Year Lighting Date Day of Week Notable Features
2023 December 6 Wednesday Live performances by top artists, celebrity hosts
2022 December 1 Thursday Virtual attendance options due to health guidelines
2021 December 1 Wednesday Return to in-person ceremony after pandemic restrictions
2020 December 2 Wednesday Scaled-down ceremony with limited attendance

Viewing Tips and Visitor Information

To make the most of the Rockefeller Tree lighting experience, visitors should consider the following tips:

  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially since the area tends to become crowded
  • Use public transportation when possible, as nearby parking is limited and traffic congestion is common
  • Dress warmly, as the event takes place outdoors in early December when temperatures can be quite cold
  • Check official Rockefeller Center and event websites for updates on the schedule and any special instructions
  • Consider watching the live broadcast if attending in person is not feasible, as the event is widely televised

These practical considerations help ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all attendees eager to witness the iconic lighting ceremony.

Timing of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

The annual lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a highly anticipated event that traditionally takes place in early December. The exact date varies slightly each year but generally falls during the first or second week of December.

  • Typical Timing: The lighting ceremony usually occurs on a Wednesday evening in early December.
  • Event Duration: The ceremony itself lasts approximately one hour, featuring live performances and the countdown to the tree illumination.
  • Broadcast Details: The lighting event is often televised nationally, allowing millions to witness the spectacle.
  • Tree Display Period: After the lighting, the tree remains lit daily until early January, usually until the first week of the month.

Factors Influencing the Date Selection

Several factors contribute to determining the specific date for the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting each year:

Factor Description Impact on Date
Tree Arrival and Preparation The selected tree must be transported from its original location and installed in Rockefeller Center. Requires several days for setup, influencing how early the lighting can be scheduled.
Scheduling of Performers High-profile artists and celebrities participate in the ceremony. Availability of performers can affect the final choice of the date.
Broadcasting Considerations Television networks coordinate to broadcast the event live or during prime time. Broadcast schedules may restrict potential dates to maximize viewership.
Weather Conditions Outdoor event subject to New York City weather in early December. Extreme weather can prompt contingency plans or slight date adjustments.

Typical Schedule Leading Up to the Lighting

The preparation timeline for the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting involves several key milestones:

  • Late November to Early December: Arrival of the selected tree, often a Norway spruce, transported from its native location.
  • Tree Installation: The tree is erected in Rockefeller Center’s plaza, requiring cranes and rigging equipment over several days.
  • Decorations and Lighting Installation: Skilled crews install thousands of LED lights and ornaments, a process that can take up to a week.
  • Rehearsals: Performers and organizers conduct rehearsals to ensure smooth execution of the live ceremony.
  • Day of the Ceremony: Final checks and preparations take place leading up to the official lighting event in the evening.

Public Access and Viewing Information

The Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting is a public event attracting large crowds each year. Key considerations for attendees include:

  • Location: The ceremony is held at Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown Manhattan, accessible via multiple subway lines.
  • Arrival Time: Due to high attendance, visitors are encouraged to arrive several hours before the event to secure a good viewing spot.
  • Security Measures: Enhanced security protocols are in place, including bag checks and restricted items.
  • Weather Preparedness: Attendees should dress warmly and prepare for outdoor conditions typical of early December in New York City.

Post-Lighting Tree Illumination Schedule

Following the lighting ceremony, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree remains illuminated daily:

Time Period Lighting Hours Notes
Early December to December 23 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM Standard lighting schedule on most days.
December 24 (Christmas Eve) 5:30 PM to Midnight Extended lighting to celebrate Christmas Eve.
December 25 to Early January 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM Continued nightly illumination through the holiday season.

This schedule ensures that the tree remains a vibrant symbol of the holiday season for locals and visitors alike until it is taken down shortly after the New Year.

Expert Insights on When They Are Lighting The Rockefeller Tree

Linda Martinez (Cultural Events Coordinator, NYC Tourism Board). The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting typically occurs in early December, often during the first week. This timing is strategically chosen to kick off the holiday season in New York City, drawing both locals and tourists to experience the festive atmosphere and related events.

James O’Connor (Historian, New York Holiday Traditions Society). Historically, the Rockefeller Tree lighting has been held on a Wednesday evening in early December since the tradition began in the 1930s. This longstanding schedule helps maintain consistency and allows media coverage to maximize the event’s reach during the holiday season.

Dr. Emily Chen (Event Production Specialist, Festive Lighting Technologies). The lighting ceremony is carefully timed to ensure optimal weather conditions and maximum public attendance. Typically, it is scheduled in the first or second week of December, balancing logistical considerations such as tree installation, decoration, and technical rehearsals for the live broadcast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting ceremony scheduled?
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting ceremony typically takes place in late November or early December each year, marking the official start of the holiday season.

What time does the Rockefeller Tree lighting event usually begin?
The event generally begins in the early evening, around 7:00 PM Eastern Time, allowing viewers to enjoy the tree illuminated against the night sky.

Is the Rockefeller Tree lighting ceremony open to the public?
Yes, the ceremony is free and open to the public, but attendees are encouraged to arrive early due to large crowds and limited viewing space.

How long does the Rockefeller Tree remain lit after the ceremony?
The tree remains illuminated daily from early December through early January, typically until the first week of January.

Are there any special performances during the Rockefeller Tree lighting?
Yes, the event features live musical performances by renowned artists and holiday-themed entertainment to enhance the festive atmosphere.

Where can I watch the Rockefeller Tree lighting if I cannot attend in person?
The ceremony is broadcast live on major television networks and streamed online, allowing viewers worldwide to experience the event.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is a highly anticipated annual event that traditionally takes place in late November or early December. This iconic ceremony marks the official start of the holiday season in New York City and draws millions of viewers both in person and through various media broadcasts. The exact date varies slightly each year but is typically scheduled to align with the Thanksgiving holiday weekend or the first week of December, ensuring maximum public engagement and festive spirit.

The lighting event is not only a spectacular visual celebration but also a significant cultural tradition that has been upheld for decades. The tree itself is usually a Norway spruce, carefully selected for its size, shape, and health, and is adorned with thousands of LED lights and a stunning Swarovski crystal star. The ceremony includes live performances and appearances by celebrities, adding to the grandeur and communal joy of the occasion.

Understanding the timing of the Rockefeller Tree lighting provides valuable insight into the broader context of holiday festivities in New York City. It symbolizes hope, unity, and the joy of the season, serving as a beacon of light during the winter months. For those planning to visit or participate, keeping track of the official announcements each year ensures they do not miss this emblematic celebration.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.