Reba McEntire to Host Star-Studded 2025 Rockefeller Tree Lighting

Country music legend Reba McEntire will host the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. The live televised event is scheduled for Wednesday, December 3. It will air on NBC and stream on Peacock starting at 8 p.m. Eastern Time.

This marks McEntire’s first time hosting the iconic holiday special. She takes over from previous host Kelly Clarkson. The 93rd annual celebration will feature a massive lineup of musical performers.

Unprecedented Performer Lineup Announced for Holiday Special

NBC has unveiled a remarkably diverse roster of artists for the two-hour broadcast. According to the official announcement, the show will feature over a dozen major acts. Headliners include Gwen Stefani, Marc Anthony, and Michael Bublé.

Additional performers include Brad Paisley, jazz-pop artist Laufey, and Kristin Chenoweth. The lineup also boasts Halle Bailey, the group New Edition, and country singer Carly Pearce. The iconic Radio City Rockettes will also perform their signature high-kicking routine.

McEntire will pull double duty as both host and performer throughout the evening. Today show anchors Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, and Al Roker are set for special appearances. The event promises a blend of classic holiday tunes and contemporary hits.

93rd Annual Tradition Features New York’s Finest Spruce

The ceremony will center on the lighting of a majestic 75-foot Norway Spruce. This year’s tree was sourced from a family in East Greenbush, New York. It will be adorned with thousands of lights and a stunning Swarovski star topper.

For in-person attendees, the ceremony at Rockefeller Plaza runs from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET. The actual tree lighting typically occurs in the final moments of the televised broadcast. The event draws millions of live viewers and ushers in the holiday season for countless families.

The 2025 Rockefeller tree lighting, with Reba McEntire at the helm and an all-star cast, is poised to be one of the most-watched holiday events of the year, continuing a beloved American tradition that began in 1933.

Info at your fingertips

When is the 2025 Rockefeller tree lighting?

The ceremony is on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The televised broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.

Who else is performing besides Reba McEntire?

The lineup includes Gwen Stefani, Marc Anthony, Michael Bublé, Brad Paisley, and the Radio City Rockettes. Over a dozen major acts are scheduled to perform.

Where is this year’s Rockefeller tree from?

The 75-foot Norway Spruce was donated from East Greenbush, New York. It will be decorated with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights for the ceremony.

Can I attend the tree lighting in person?

Yes, viewing in the Rockefeller Center plazas is free and open to the public. Arrival many hours in advance is strongly recommended due to massive crowds.

Will the show be available after it airs live?

Yes. The special will be available for on-demand streaming on Peacock following the initial live broadcast on December 3.

Why is Reba McEntire hosting this year?

NBC selected the country icon for her broad appeal and decades of entertainment experience. She replaces Kelly Clarkson, who hosted the prior several years.