The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony in New York City took place once again, bringing a festive display to Manhattan. This year’s tree, a 75-foot Norway Spruce from East Greenbush, New York, was lit last night and decorated with over 50,000 LED lights. According to ABC7NY, the ceremony began just before 10 p.m., continuing an annual tradition that has been observed since its start during the Great Depression.
People began lining up in the afternoon to secure spots for the tree lighting ceremony. Sharon Harvey, visiting from the United Kingdom, told the New York Post that she was excited to experience the event. The ceremony attracts visitors from around the world, with attendees often waiting for several hours to see the tree lighting.
The Norway Spruce was donated by Judy Ross in memory of her husband and was originally planted by his great-grandparents in the 1920s. It was topped with a 900-pound Swarovski star before being displayed in Midtown. Following tradition, the tree will remain lit through the New Year. For many visitors, the tree represents an annual holiday attraction and a longstanding tradition in New York City.
The crowd included 129 students and staff from special needs schools, hosted by NYPD Community Affairs to allow them to participate in the event. Assistant Commissioner Alden Foster said to ABC7NY that the evening provided an opportunity to engage with young people with disabilities. As with other large gatherings in the city, street closures were in effect and advisory warnings were issued, encouraging attendees to use public transportation or walk.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting, which began as a way to lift spirits, continues to attract visitors each year. Tammy Jacobs, a retired military member, described her experience to the New York Post as being part of an important American tradition. The event remains a central feature of the holiday season, with the illuminated tree serving as a symbol of seasonal celebration and longstanding tradition in New York City.
