Rockefeller Tree Lighting

Be a part of lighting the largest and most iconic Christmas tree in the world!

Thousands of people gather to see the historic event of the Rockefeller Tree Lighting. | Photo Courtesy of Anthony Quintano

Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting

Come see the annual Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting that draws crowds of thousands of people! The Rockefeller Center Tree will be lit for the first time on Nov. 30 and will remain lit until Jan. 1. Last year in 2021, the tree lighting was both open to the public and by broadcast, as will this year’s event. The tree-lighting festivities will kick off at 8 p.m. on Nov. 30 and will host a plethora of performances.

This year’s tree originates from Queensbury, New York.

History of the Rockefeller Tree Lighting

Since 1933, this tradition has stood as the start of the holiday season and brings the city of New York together. During the Great Depression, workers would round up their paychecks and gather around Rockefeller Plaza to put up a small Christmas tree for the season. It became a “holiday beacon for New Yorkers and visitors alike.” Over the years, the tree has been decorated in patriotic colors during World War II, and in 2001 to remember September 11th. Every year, it lights up the center of Midtown with its beauty and decorations.

By the end of the season, over 125 million people will have visited the tree, making it the center of the holiday season.

The Rockefeller Tree will be lit every day from 6:00 am to Midnight from Dec. 1 through Jan. 10; however, on New Year’s day the tree will be open for viewing until 9 p.m. On Christmas Day, the tree will be lit for 24 hours! Visit Rockefeller Plaza between West 48th and 51st Streets and Fifth and Sixth Avenues to experience a wonderful start to the holidays!

Live Performances

This year’s live performances will include:

• Alicia Keys
• Jimmie Allen
• Brett Eldredge
• Mickey Guyton
• Dan + Shay
• Katharine McPhee
• The Muppets of Sesame Street

Take Amtrak to the Rockefeller Tree Lighting

Experience the event via Amtrak to Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station in New York City—Don’t forget to use the See New York and Save 15% discount!

To get from Penn Station to the Rockefeller Tree Lighting, take the 1 Subway line from Penn Station to 50th Street-Broadway then head east to Rockefeller Center along 50th Street (8-minute walk).

Or, take the E train from Penn Station to 5th Avenue-53rd Street, then head downtown along 5th Avenue to 50th Street (6-minute walk).

*The event is free and open to the public. First come, first serve.*