The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is New York’s most famous holiday symbol. The tradition began in 1931, when construction workers building Rockefeller Center put up a tree during the Depression; the first official tree lighting followed in 1933. Each year a large Norway spruce is selected, often from upstate New York or nearby states, and lit in a televised ceremony shortly after Thanksgiving. It stays up until mid-January and is topped by a crystal star. Afterward, the tree’s wood has been donated to Habitat for Humanity.

Key facts
First tree 1931
First official lighting 1933
Usual species Norway spruce
Lighting Shortly after Thanksgiving
Display ends Mid-January

How the tree is chosen

Rockefeller Center’s gardeners scout trees throughout the year, often on private property, looking for size, shape and health. The chosen tree arrives by flatbed truck in November.

Visiting tips

  • Go early morning or late at night — the tree is lit until late and crowds thin.
  • Weekdays are calmer than weekends.
  • Combine with the ice rink, Saks’ light show and Fifth Avenue windows. Read NYC holiday windows.
  • Expect pedestrian management — lines and one-way sidewalks on busy nights.

Getting there by car

Streets around Rockefeller Center are congested in December, and some are closed to cars on peak nights. Arrange drop-off and pickup on nearby avenues. Read Midtown Manhattan car service and midtown office drop-off tips.

The Rink and nearby sights

Beneath the tree, the Rink at Rockefeller Center is one of New York’s most famous ice-skating spots, open through the winter. Nearby, Radio City Music Hall’s Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes and St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue make a classic holiday itinerary. Read Radio City Music Hall.

A holiday lights evening

Many visitors combine the tree with a drive to Dyker Heights and the Fifth Avenue windows. With hourly service, your chauffeur can take you between them and wait while you walk. Read Dyker Heights Christmas lights.