Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting 2025
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony for 2025 will take place on Wednesday, December 3rd, starting at 7 PM in Midtown Manhattan. This annual event marks the official start of the holiday season in New York City and attracts thousands of visitors who come to see the iconic tree, decorated with over 50,000 multicolored LED lights and topped with a dazzling Swarovski crystal star. The tree lighting is a festive celebration featuring live music, celebrity guests, and holiday performances. The tree will remain lit daily from early December through mid-January, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy this beloved holiday tradition.
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is expected to arrive in New York City on either November 8 or November 15, 2025. On the arrival day, the tree is usually brought to Rockefeller Plaza in Midtown Manhattan early in the morning, where workers hoist it into position in front of the famous Rockefeller Center ice skating rink. The ceremony typically starts around 7 AM and takes about three to four hours to complete.
The exact arrival day between November 8 and 15 is kept as a surprise until shortly before the event. The location for the tree’s placement is Rockefeller Plaza, between West 49th and 50th Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues in Midtown Manhattan.