How to Watch Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting 2025: Performers, Live Stream, and Start Time

The 93rd annual Rockefeller Center Christmas tree will be lit on Wednesday, December 3. The event is a major holiday tradition in New York City. It will be broadcast live on NBC starting at 8 p.m. ET.

Hosted by Reba McEntire, the special promises a two-hour lineup of top musical talent. It marks the official start of the holiday season for many. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the tree will remain on display for public viewing through early January.

Multiple Ways to Stream the Christmas Spectacle Live

You can watch the ceremony on NBC through any live TV streaming service. Several platforms are offering free trials that cover the event date. This allows viewers to stream the lighting for free without a cable subscription.

Options include DirecTV Stream, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling. Each carries the local NBC broadcast. The official NBC streaming service, Peacock, will also simulcast the entire event live.

A Star-Studded Lineup for the 2025 Celebration

The performer list is a major draw for the televised special. It features a blend of legendary artists and current stars. This year’s roster aims to appeal to a wide audience of all ages.

Headliners include Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, and Michael Bublé. They will be joined by Kristin Chenoweth, Laufey, and Gwen Stefani. The iconic Radio City Rockettes will also perform their precise dance routines.

The event is a significant promotional moment for both the artists and Rockefeller Center. It draws millions of television viewers each year. The tree itself, typically a Norway spruce over 70 feet tall, becomes a global symbol of holiday spirit.

The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting is a can’t-miss holiday event. Tune in to witness the festive ceremony and stellar performances live.

Info at your fingertips

Can I watch the tree lighting for free?

Yes. Several live TV streaming services offer free trials that include NBC. Fubo has a seven-day trial, and DirecTV Stream offers a five-day trial, allowing you to watch the event at no cost.

Who is hosting the 2025 ceremony?

Country music icon and entertainment legend Reba McEntire is hosting the two-hour television special. She will introduce performances and preside over the tree-lighting countdown.

What time does the event start?

The televised “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” special begins at 8 p.m. Eastern Time and Pacific Time on Wednesday, December 3. The actual tree lighting occurs during the broadcast.

Where can I stream it without cable?

You can stream it live on Peacock, NBC’s own platform. It is also available on live TV services like Hulu + Live TV, Sling Blue, Fubo, and DirecTV Stream, all of which carry local NBC stations.

How long will the Christmas tree be on display?

The illuminated tree will remain at Rockefeller Center for public viewing until early January. The exact takedown date is typically announced a few weeks after the lighting ceremony.