Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lights Up NYC Tonight at 10 PM

UPDATE: The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree will illuminate Midtown Manhattan tonight, December 6, 2023, just before 10 PM. This beloved holiday tradition features a magnificent 75-foot Norway Spruce, generously donated by Judy Ross in memory of her late husband and family members.

The tree, sourced from East Greenbush, New York, holds deep sentimental value for Ross, as it was planted by her husband’s great-grandparents in the 1920s. Tonight’s lighting ceremony will highlight the tree’s stunning display of over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights, crowned with a dazzling 900-pound Swarovski star.

As this festive event unfolds, New Yorkers should be aware that it marks the beginning of street closures around Rockefeller Center for the holiday season. Authorities advise drivers to expect significant delays and extensive street closures across Manhattan, especially on designated Gridlock Alert Days. To navigate the city efficiently, residents are encouraged to utilize regional rail lines, the subway, bus systems, ferries, cycling, or simply walking.

The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting dates back to 1931, originally erected to uplift spirits during the Great Depression. The first tree was a modest 20-foot balsam fir adorned with handmade garlands created by the workers’ families. The tradition has since grown, with the inaugural tree-lighting ceremony held in 1933.

As the excitement builds for tonight’s event, expect crowds of holiday revelers to gather in anticipation of this spectacular display. The Rockefeller Center tree lighting is not just a visual feast; it symbolizes hope and unity during the festive season.

Stay tuned for live updates and be part of this cherished New York City tradition!