Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting is one of New York City’s most iconic holiday traditions, attracting thousands in person and millions via broadcast.
Origins
1931 – The very first tree was put up by construction workers building Rockefeller Center during the Great Depression. It was a modest 20-foot balsam fir decorated with handmade garlands.
1933 – The first official tree lighting ceremony took place, marking the start of an annual tradition.
Key Milestones
1942–1944 – During World War II, trees were decorated in patriotic colors and dimmed to comply with blackout regulations.
1951 – The lighting ceremony was televised for the first time on The Kate Smith Show.
1986 – The tree reached a record height of 100 feet.
2004 – Introduction of the Swarovski crystal star as the tree topper.
2007 – Transition to energy-efficient LED lights, reducing energy consumption by 50%.
Present Day – The tree is typically a Norway Spruce, adorned with over 50,000 LED lights and topped with a massive Swarovski star. After the holidays, the tree is recycled into lumber for Habitat for Humanity.
