What Time Do They Light the Tree at Rockefeller Center Tonight?

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will be lit tonight, December 3, 2025, during NBC’s annual Christmas in Rockefeller Center special. The lighting happens near the end of the live broadcast. The main keyword appears early to help readers quickly find what time they light the tree at Rockefeller Center.

New Yorkers and visitors are expected to gather in Midtown Manhattan for the first illumination of the 75-foot Norway spruce. The celebration includes musical performances, celebrity appearances, and live coverage. NBC confirmed the full timing for viewers at home.

Exact Time They Light the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The special begins at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. The actual tree lighting happens close to the end of the two-hour event. Viewers should expect the lighting shortly before 10 p.m. ET. This schedule has been consistent in past years, according to recent coverage from NBC and other entertainment outlets.

The ceremony includes performances by Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, Kristin Chenoweth, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, Gwen Stefani, New Edition, and Laufey. Reba McEntire will also host and perform. TODAY anchors Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, and Al Roker are taking part in the broadcast.

This year’s tree is a 75-foot Norway spruce from East Greenbush in Rensselaer County, New York. It is about a foot taller than last year’s tree. The spruce is approximately 75 years old and came from the Russ family’s property, where it stood for decades.

Fans can expect music, skating scenes, and appearances from the Radio City Rockettes, who are celebrating their 100th anniversary. The ceremony is expected to draw large crowds as always, with the tree remaining on display through early January.

Why This Year’s Lighting Draws Major Attention

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is one of the nation’s most-watched holiday events. Millions tune in each year for the combination of music, tradition, and holiday atmosphere. This year’s show is notable for its high-profile performer lineup and the milestone Rockettes celebration.

Tourism agencies expect holiday activity in Midtown to surge after tonight’s event. The lighting also marks the unofficial start of New York City’s peak holiday season. Many visitors plan trips around the ceremony and the weeks-long period the tree stays illuminated.

The main keyword remains central as the event approaches. Viewers can watch live starting at 8 p.m. ET, but the actual moment they light the tree at Rockefeller Center will take place just before 10 p.m. ET.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time do they light the tree at Rockefeller Center?

The lighting happens near the end of the Christmas in Rockefeller Center special. Expect it shortly before 10 p.m. ET tonight.

Q2: What channel is the Rockefeller Center tree lighting on?

The special airs on NBC. It also streams on Peacock beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

Q3: How tall is the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?

The tree stands 75 feet tall. It is a Norway spruce from East Greenbush, New York.

Q4: Who is performing at the tree lighting?

Performers include Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, Kristin Chenoweth, New Edition, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, and Gwen Stefani.

Q5: How long does the Rockefeller Center Tree stay up?

The tree remains lit through early January. Exact takedown dates vary each year.