Rockefeller Christmas Tree: A New York Holiday Icon

The Rockefeller Christmas Tree has become an iconic symbol of the holiday season in New York City. For over eight decades, the towering tree has stood proudly in Midtown Manhattan, attracting millions of visitors each year. The tree's rich history, impressive size, and dazzling decorations make it a must-see attraction during the holiday season.

History of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

The tradition of having a Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center dates back to 1931, during the construction of the complex. Workers building the skyscraper decorated a 20-foot balsam fir with handmade ornaments, creating a festive atmosphere on the construction site. The tree was such a hit that it became an annual tradition, with the first official Rockefeller Christmas Tree being erected in 1933.

Over the years, the tree has grown in size and popularity, with some trees reaching heights of over 100 feet. The tree is typically a Norway spruce, chosen for its sturdy branches and symmetrical shape. The selection process for the perfect tree is rigorous, with a team of experts scouring the Northeast for the perfect specimen.

Selecting the Perfect Tree

The process of selecting the Rockefeller Christmas Tree begins several years in advance. A team of experts from Rockefeller Center, led by the center's landscape architect, search for the perfect tree in the Northeast. They look for a tree that is at least 75 feet tall, with a symmetrical shape and sturdy branches.

Once a tree is selected, it is carefully harvested and transported to Rockefeller Center, where it is erected in mid-November. The tree is then decorated with thousands of lights, ornaments, and a giant Swarovski crystal star.

Decorating the Tree

The decorating process is a labor of love, with a team of experts working tirelessly to transform the tree into a dazzling spectacle. The tree is adorned with over 25,000 LED lights, which are carefully strung along the branches to create a mesmerizing display. The lights are energy-efficient and use a fraction of the energy required by traditional incandescent bulbs.

In addition to the lights, the tree is decorated with hundreds of handmade ornaments, including glass balls, snowflakes, and other festive shapes. The tree topper is a giant Swarovski crystal star, which weighs over 900 pounds and is adorned with over 25,000 crystals.

Visiting the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is a must-see attraction during the holiday season. Visitors can view the tree from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM daily, with extended hours on weekends and holidays. The tree is located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, making it easily accessible by public transportation or on foot.

In addition to viewing the tree, visitors can enjoy a variety of holiday activities and events in Rockefeller Center, including ice skating, shopping, and dining. The center also offers a range of holiday tours and packages, including a behind-the-scenes look at the tree's decorating process.

Fun Facts About the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

• The tallest Rockefeller Christmas Tree was a 100-foot Norway spruce in 1999.
• The tree is typically between 75 and 100 feet tall.
• The tree is decorated with over 25,000 LED lights.
• The tree topper is a giant Swarovski crystal star that weighs over 900 pounds.
• The tree is viewed by over 750,000 people each day during the holiday season.

After the Holiday Season

After the holiday season, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is donated to Habitat for Humanity, where it is milled into lumber and used to build homes for those in need. This tradition began in 2007 and has resulted in the construction of over 100 homes.

The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is a beloved holiday tradition that brings joy and festive cheer to millions of visitors each year. Whether you're a local or just visiting New York City, the tree is a must-see attraction that is sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

Gallery of Rockefeller Christmas Tree

We hope you've enjoyed this article about the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. Whether you're a local or just visiting New York City, the tree is a must-see attraction that is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. Don't forget to share your photos with us on social media using the hashtag #RockefellerChristmasTree.

Gallery of Rockefeller Christmas Tree: A New York Holiday Icon