5 Shocking Facts And The Star-Studded Lineup For The 2025 Rockefeller Tree Ceremony

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony remains the undisputed pinnacle of New York City's holiday season, a global spectacle that draws millions of viewers and thousands to Midtown Manhattan. As of today, December 10, 2025, the official details for the most recent and highly anticipated ceremony have been confirmed, solidifying its status as a must-see event.

This annual tradition, which transforms Rockefeller Plaza into a dazzling winter wonderland, is more than just flipping a switch; it is a star-studded, three-hour television broadcast that officially kicks off the holiday season across the entire nation. The 2025 event, which took place just days ago, featured a monumental tree and a lineup of performers that lived up to the ceremony's legendary reputation.

The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: A Profile in Grandeur

The selection of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a year-round, highly secretive process, and the 2025 specimen was a true marvel. The tree’s journey from its quiet, upstate home to the heart of New York City is a story of meticulous planning and American tradition.

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• Tree Type: Norway Spruce
• Origin Location: East Greenbush, New York
• Height: 75 feet tall
• Diameter: 45 feet in diameter
• Weight: Approximately 11 tons
• Number of Lights: Over 50,000 multi-colored, energy-efficient LED lights
• Star: Topped with the iconic, three-dimensional Swarovski Star, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, featuring 3 million crystals and weighing approximately 900 pounds.
• Donors: The tree was generously donated by a private family in East Greenbush, continuing the tradition of sourcing the tree from ordinary American homes.

The Norway Spruce from East Greenbush was carefully wrapped and transported to Rockefeller Plaza, where it was erected and prepared for the lighting. This particular tree was noted for its perfect conical shape and dense, vibrant branches, making it an ideal choice for the world's most famous Christmas tree.

The Star-Studded Lineup and Broadcast Details

The annual "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" telecast on NBC is a major network event, featuring performances by some of the biggest names in music. The 2025 ceremony was no exception, delivering a festive concert leading up to the grand illumination.

The ceremony was hosted by country music icon Reba McEntire, who also served as one of the headlining performers. Her presence brought a mix of holiday cheer and classic star power to the stage.

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Headline Performers & Special Guests

The stage at Rockefeller Plaza was graced by a diverse and talented group of artists. The combination of pop, R&B, and country ensured there was something for every viewer of the broadcast.

• Reba McEntire: Host and headlining performer, singing classic holiday tunes.
• Marc Anthony: The Latin music superstar delivered a powerful, festive set.
• Halle Bailey: The celebrated singer and actress performed a selection of winter-themed songs.
• The Rockettes: The legendary dance company from Radio City Music Hall performed their signature eye-high kicks, a staple of the ceremony.
• Other Guests: The event also featured appearances by the New York City Mayor and several surprise celebrity guests who helped countdown to the final moment.

The festivities officially ran from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM EST on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, with the actual tree lighting occurring in the final minutes of the broadcast, a moment of collective anticipation that defines the New York City holiday experience.

5 Fascinating Facts That Define The Rockefeller Tradition

While the lights and stars grab the headlines, the history and logistics behind the Rockefeller Tree Lighting are equally compelling. Understanding these facts adds a layer of appreciation to this enduring holiday tradition and its place in American culture.

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1. The First Tree Was Erected by Construction Workers

The tradition didn't start with a grand ceremony; it began in 1931 during the Great Depression. Construction workers building the Rockefeller Center pooled their money to buy a 20-foot balsam fir. They decorated it with handmade garlands, cranberries, and tin cans. This humble beginning is a powerful reminder of the tree's roots as a symbol of hope and community for the working class.

2. The Official Ceremony Did Not Begin Until 1933

Although the first tree appeared in 1931, the first official Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony, complete with a formal program, took place two years later in 1933. This event marked the beginning of the annual tradition that has continued uninterrupted for nearly a century.

3. The Lights Could Stretch for Miles

The 2025 tree was adorned with over 50,000 lights. If you were to string all those lights end-to-end, the total length of the wiring would stretch for approximately 5 to 8 miles. This massive array of LED lights is a testament to the sheer scale of the display and the logistical challenge of decorating such a large Norway Spruce.

4. The Star is a Modern Marvel of Crystal and Engineering

The iconic Swarovski Star that sits atop the tree is not just a decoration; it’s an engineering feat. The current star, designed by Daniel Libeskind, is 9 feet 4 inches in diameter and features 70 glass spikes. It is illuminated by 3 million Swarovski crystals, creating a dazzling, multi-faceted sparkle that can be seen for blocks down Fifth Avenue.

5. The Tree is Donated to Charity After the Holidays

The tree's life does not end when the holiday season is over. Once it is taken down in early January, the lumber is milled and donated to Habitat for Humanity. This commitment to sustainability ensures that the wood from the world-famous tree gets a second life, providing materials for building homes for families in need. This charitable act is an essential part of the modern Rockefeller tradition, adding a philanthropic layer to the spectacle.

The Rockefeller Tree Ceremony is a complex, beautiful tapestry woven from history, celebrity, and community spirit. From the moment the 75-foot Norway Spruce arrives from East Greenbush, New York, to the final flip of the switch by the special guests, the event is a powerful symbol of the start of the Christmas season in New York City.