2025 Lighting Date and Schedule
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas tree will be lit in late November, following the pattern of recent years. The official lighting ceremony typically occurs on the Wednesday following Thanksgiving, which in 2025 falls on November 26. After the ceremony, the tree remains illuminated each night from sunset through 11:30 p.m. via thousands of LED lights. Confirm the exact time and any ceremony changes on the official Rockefeller Center website as the date approaches.
What to Expect at the Lighting Ceremony
The tree lighting is a free public event centered at Rockefeller Plaza in Midtown Manhattan. The ceremony features live performances, a celebrity lighting by a notable guest, and a countdown as the tree is illuminated. Security lines begin early, often by mid-afternoon, and seating for the televised portion fills quickly. Visitors should review current entry guidelines, dress warmly, and arrive with patience for a festive, family-friendly experience.
How to Watch If You Can't Attend
Live TV and Streaming
The lighting is televised live on NBC and streamed on peacocktv.com and the NBC app. International viewers can watch via NBC’s global partners. Rockefeller Center’s social channels provide live streams and real-time updates for remote audiences.
Best Viewing Times
- Ceremony start: After the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, typically around 1 p.m. ET
- Tree illumination: Shortly after the ceremony, around 6 p.m. ET
- Post-lighting nightly display: Until 11:30 p.m. daily
Visiting the Tree in 2025: Practical Tips
To secure a good viewing spot, arrive at least two to three hours before the ceremony. Public transit is strongly recommended, as streets around Fifth Avenue near 48th–51st Streets close to cars during the event. Nearby subway stops include 47th–50th Streets–Rockefeller Center (B, D, F, M), 50th Street (1, 2, 3), and Grand Central–42nd Street. Expect large crowds; bring essentials, follow security instructions, and plan for limited street access after the lighting.
History and Traditions
Origins
The tree-lighting tradition began in 1931 when construction workers erected a small balsam fir atop a scaffold. The giant commercial Christmas tree debuted in 1933 as a Depression-era effort to lift spirits, with public lighting starting in 1936. Over the decades, the tree has grown in size and symbolism, becoming a global icon of holiday celebration.
Notable Milestones
| Year | Tree Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1933 | First tree displayed, 40 feet | Lit by simple Christmas lights |
| 1997 | Bronze star added to top | Commemorated 50th anniversary of TV |
| 2018 | 75-foot Norway spruce installed | LED lighting introduced |
| 2023 | 79-foot Norway spruce | Sustainability focus with energy-efficient LEDs |
Tree Specifications and Sustainability
The 2025 tree is a 70–80 foot Norway spruce selected from a family-run farm in Oneonta, New York. It is transported to Rockefeller Plaza, decorated with over 50,000 LED lights and nearly 100 ornaments designed by local artists and organizations. The tree remains on display through the first week of January and is then recycled into wood chips for community projects, reflecting ongoing environmental stewardship.
Related Events Around the Tree
Rockefeller Center offers a season-long lineup of activities, including ice skating at the rink, holiday markets, performances, and visits with special guests. Check the official site for updated event calendars, as timing and offerings may change annually.
Plan Your Visit
Dress in warm layers, wear waterproof footwear, and bring a small daypack for essentials. Consider nearby attractions such as Radio City Music Hall and Fifth Avenue shopping after the lighting. For families, stroller-friendly routes and accessible entrances are available; review accessibility details on the Rockefeller Center site before heading out.
Final Notes
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting will take place on Wednesday, November 26, with the tree illuminated nightly through early January. Confirm final details on the official Rockefeller Center website, plan ahead for access and timing, and enjoy a longtime New York tradition that combines holiday spirit with iconic New York City pageantry.