Forget the calendar, Christmas in NYC doesn’t start until the Rockefeller Center Tree says so! For over 90 years, the tree has been New York’s most magical holiday tradition come to life, and as of November 8th, it’s officially here.
Whether you’ve had a visit to this sparkling landmark on your bucket list for years or it’s right in your neighborhood, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to experiencing the magic — from seeing the tree up close to catching the unforgettable lighting ceremony.
🎄 When will the tree arrive in Rockefeller Center?
Perfect timing! This year’s stunning, 75 foot tree made its arrival bright and early on Saturday, November 8th, after being cut down on the prior Thursday and transported from its charming, upstate home in East Greenbush, NY.
On arrival day each year, Rockefeller Center hosts a fun family “Meet the Tree” day that includes photo opportunities with Santa, crafts, storytimes and special performances.
📍 Where is the tree located?
The tree is located in Rockefeller Plaza at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, situated between West 49th and West 50th Streets and Fifth and Sixth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan.
It’s conveniently located just around the corner from FAO Schwartz and American Girl Place for some fun holiday shopping after the visit!
🗓️ When is the tree lighting ceremony?
The official lighting ceremony for the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will take place on TONIGHT, on Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025.
The live broadcast and festivities, featuring various musical performances, typically runs from 7 pm to 10 pm EST. The tree is officially lit closer to the end of the broadcast.
📺 How can I watch it?
Christmas in Rockefeller Center is broadcast live nationally on NBC and will be streaming on Peacock. The broadcast starts at 7 pm EST and will feature a fun lineup of performances and holiday cheer.
🧣 How can I attend?
The ceremony is free and open to the public, but will likely draw large crowds. Preparation is key for a magical viewing experience.
- ⏰ The ceremony is on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 7 pm – 10 pm EST (Tree lighting is close to 10 pm)
- 📍 The streets around Rockefeller Plaza, mainly 49th and 50th Streets between 5th and 6th Avenues
- Access: Gates to the viewing “pens” generally open around 4 pm, subject to NYPD discretion
- Recommended Arrival: To secure a spot, you must arrive very early, typically between 12 pm and 3 pm (noon to mid-afternoon). The area fills quickly and capacity is strict.
🎤 Who will host?
The event will have multiple hosts across different time slots:
- Reba McEntire will host the main “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” special from 8 PM – 10 PM.
- She will be joined by NBC’s TODAY anchors: Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, and Al Roker for a special appearance during the 8 PM – 10 PM timeframe.
- Mario Lopez, Natalie Pasquarella, and David Ushery will host the regional hour of the special from 7 PM – 8 PM.
🔒 What streets will be closed?
On the day of the lighting ceremony (December 3rd), extensive street closures and traffic limitations will be in effect, generally starting in the mid-afternoon (around 3 pm) until the event concludes. Expect closures and restrictions in the area bordered by:
- 48th to 52nd Streets
- Avenue of the Americas (6th Ave) to Madison Avenue
For the rest of the holiday season after the lighting, certain adjacent streets, especially 49th and 50th Streets between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, are often permanently or intermittently closed to vehicle traffic to manage pedestrian crowds.
❄️ Any other special dates should I know about?
- Christmas Day (December 25th): The tree is lit for a full 24 hours
- New Year’s Eve (December 31st): The lights are typically turned off earlier than usual, around 9 pm
- Mid-January 2026 (Take Down): The tree will remain on display through the first or second week of January before it is taken down and milled into lumber for Habitat for Humanity.
✈️ How can I visit the tree this year?
The tree is on view and lit daily from 5 am to 12 am (midnight) until it comes down in mid-January.
🪄 Our tips and tricks
- Avoid peak hours: The area is most crowded in the evenings (5 pm – 9 pm). For a less stressful visit and better photos, go early in the morning (5 am – 8 am) or late at night (10 pm – midnight). The lights are on during these times and the crowds are significantly smaller.
- The best view is a quick view: On a busy day, NYC Police often guide foot traffic in a quick, one-way flow past the tree. Be prepared to keep moving.
- Use mass transit: Take the B, D, F, or M train to the 47th-50th Sts-Rockefeller Center station to avoid traffic and parking issues.
🎁 What else should I do in Rockefeller Center?
Beyond the magnificent tree, Rockefeller Center and its immediate vicinity offer many iconic holiday activities.
- ⛸️ Ice Skating at The Rink: Skate right under the tree, a quintessential New York experience
- 🔭 Top of the Rock Observation Deck: Get a breathtaking panoramic view of the city skyline, including a great aerial view of the tree, the surrounding holiday lights, and Central Park
- 🎄 Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show: Just across the street on Fifth Avenue, the Saks flagship store puts on a spectacular holiday light show projected onto the building set to music
- 🎶 Radio City Music Hall: Catch the famous Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes
- 🪟 Window Shopping: Stroll down Fifth Avenue to admire the elaborate and stunning holiday window displays at stores like Bergdorf Goodman and Cartier
There’s no better way to celebrate the most magical time of the year than with the most magical tree in the world! Learn more about the holidays at Rockefeller center on their website!