The highly anticipated arrival of the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is set for tomorrow, as it makes its way from East Greenbush to 30 Rockefeller Plaza in Manhattan. This majestic Norway Spruce stands at an impressive 75 feet tall and weighs approximately 11 tons. The tree will be transported roughly 130 miles on a flatbed truck, arriving in Manhattan in time for the annual festivities.
Family-Friendly Activities and Holiday Events
To celebrate the tree’s arrival, a “Meet the Tree” event will take place on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This family-friendly gathering will feature activities inspired by the beloved holiday classic, “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” While the event is free, attendees are encouraged to register in advance to secure their participation.
Decorating the tree will commence shortly after its installation in the iconic stand. Over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights will be strung along approximately 5 miles of wire, creating a stunning visual display. Judy Russ, the owner of the tree’s family, expressed excitement about the event, stating, “I’m excited to make more cherished memories with my family and childhood friends as it becomes the world’s Christmas tree.”
Lighting Ceremony and Sustainable Practices
The crowning feature of this year’s tree will be a striking 9-foot, 900-pound Swarovski star adorned with 3 million crystals. The lighting ceremony is scheduled for 19:00 ET on December 3, 2025, and will be broadcast live on NBC, Peacock, and all streaming platforms for NBC 4 New York.
For the first time, guests who purchase a Holiday Top of the Rock ticket will have access to a special viewing area of the tree while visiting the observation deck from December 4, 2025, to January 10, 2026. The holiday festivities will continue until mid-January 2026, when the tree is taken down.
In a commitment to sustainability, the tree will not go to waste. After the holiday season, it will be milled into lumber, which will be donated to Habitat for Humanity to support their initiatives in building affordable housing. This effort highlights not only the holiday spirit but also a dedication to community welfare.
