The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: A Holiday Tradition

Introduction

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been a holiday tradition in New York City since 1931. Every year, millions of visitors come to see the towering tree, which is adorned with thousands of lights and ornaments. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this iconic symbol of the holiday season.

The History of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The first Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree was put up in 1931 by workers who were building the Rockefeller Center complex. The tree was a modest 20 feet tall and was decorated with paper garlands, tin cans, and other homemade ornaments. Over the years, the tree has grown in size and has become more elaborate. Today, the tree stands at over 75 feet tall and is decorated with over 50,000 lights and a Swarovski crystal star.

The Selection and Transportation of the Tree

Each year, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is selected from a tree farm in the northeastern United States. The tree is usually a Norway Spruce and must be at least 75 feet tall and 45 feet wide. Once the tree is selected, it is cut down and transported to Rockefeller Center on a flatbed truck. The tree is then lifted into place by a crane and secured to a special base.

The Lighting Ceremony

The lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a highly anticipated event. The ceremony takes place in late November and is broadcast live on television. The tree is lit with a switch that is flipped by a celebrity guest. The lighting ceremony is accompanied by performances by popular musicians and other entertainers.

Visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a popular activity during the holiday season. The tree can be seen from the surrounding streets, but for a closer look, visitors can enter the Rockefeller Center plaza. The area around the tree is decorated with smaller trees and other holiday decorations. There are also several ice skating rinks and restaurants in the area.

FAQs

Q: How long does the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree stay up?

A: The tree is usually on display from late November until early January.

Q: How tall is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?

A: The tree is usually over 75 feet tall.

Q: How many lights are on the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?

A: There are over 50,000 lights on the tree.

Q: How is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree disposed of after the holiday season?

A: The tree is usually recycled and turned into mulch for use in parks and other public spaces.

Conclusion

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a beloved symbol of the holiday season in New York City and beyond. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a visit to the tree is a must during the holiday season.