Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Draws Crowds with Star-Studded Ceremony

Thousands gathered in New York City on Wednesday for a major holiday tradition. The 93rd annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting ceremony took place on December 3, 2025. The event featured hours of performances before the main attraction.The official schedule confirmed a multi-hour spectacle. According to the Associated Press, the tree lighting itself was the grand finale of the long evening.

Schedule and Star Power Define the Night

The show at Midtown Manhattan’s Rockefeller Center began at 7 p.m. Eastern Time. A host of musical acts performed for the next three hours. The Norway spruce tree was finally illuminated at 10 p.m. ET.Country music legend Reba McEntire hosted the event. She also delivered a performance for the massive crowd. The lineup included Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, and Michael Bublé.Other performers were Kristin Chenoweth, Laufey, and New Edition. Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, and Gwen Stefani also took the stage. The event concluded with a special dance number.The Radio City Rockettes performed their iconic routine. This year holds extra significance for the dance group. They are celebrating their 100th anniversary.

A Century-Old Tradition’s Economic and Cultural Spark

This event marks the unofficial start of the holiday season for many New Yorkers. It also provides a significant boost to local businesses and tourism. Hotels, restaurants, and shops see increased activity from visitors.The tree will remain lit and on display through early January. It serves as a free public attraction for millions of tourists. The ceremony itself was broadcast live to a national television audience.The tradition reinforces New York City’s global image during the holidays. It creates lasting memories for families who attend in person or watch from home. The careful planning ensures the event runs smoothly each year.

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The 93rd Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting successfully blended celebrity entertainment with timeless tradition. The ceremony’s precise timing and stellar lineup guaranteed a memorable night for the city and viewers worldwide.

Info at your fingertips

What time was the Rockefeller tree lit?

The tree was lit at 10 p.m. Eastern Time. The broader ceremony, however, started much earlier at 7 p.m. with live performances.

Who performed at the 2025 tree lighting?

The event was hosted by Reba McEntire. Performers included Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, and the Radio City Rockettes, among others.

How can I see the tree now?

The tree remains on display at Rockefeller Center. It is free for the public to visit and will stay lit daily through the first week of January.

How old is this tradition?

The 2025 event was the 93rd annual tree lighting ceremony. The tradition at Rockefeller Center began during the Great Depression in 1931.

Where does the tree come from?

Each year’s tree is donated by a different family. The 2025 tree was a Norway spruce sourced from within the United States.