As most people, especially New Yorkers, would say the Christmas season officially started with one of NYC biggest traditions… the lighting of the Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center. Every year, thousands are expected show up in person to watch the 85 foot tall Norway spruce tree light up (45,000 LED lights!) It’s an epic event and a world-wide symbol of the holiday season…which is why it should be on your “must do” list 🙂
I went to the tree lighting ceremony twice. And, I had two different experiences. The first time around I showed up around 6pm and enter Rockefeller center through 50th street and ended up seeing the performances on a big screen on the side of a building. And, to top it all off, I didn’t see the tree light up until the crowd dissipated a little bit. What’s the point of seeing something live in person if I miss the big hoopla?! So, I went out again to see the big event again. This time I brought someone with me who knew the streets of NYC better than me. I entered Rockefeller plaza from 5th ave. I had an awesome view and saw everything.
From my experience, if you venture to see the tree lighting in the future then you should keep these few things in mind. It’s free, open to the public and first come, first serve. So, you should expect a crowd. That’s okay because there’s a way around it. It’s best to enter Rockefeller through 5th ave and walk around to the horn blowing angels decorations. Trying to get through 47th or 50th is just too crowded and you probably won’t see a thing. Also, arrive early to see the performances because it’s all part of the experience. You don’t want to miss that!
If you didn’t see the tree lighting, then it’s fine because the tree will be light from 5:30am-11pm until January 7th. You should swing by and see it. Or, you can do it up and make plans for next year to see the tree lighting. Let me show you a preview of what you’ll see….
I bet you didn’t know this…people from all over the US take pictures of their trees and offer them to Rockefeller Center. The minimum dimensions of the tress must be 65 feet tall and 35 feet wide. Once the tree is selected, it’s transported to NYC in the middle of the night (less traffic) and stay unlit unless the Wednesday after Thanksgiving. Pretty cool facts, huh? Tell me your thoughts. Leave a comment and let’s chat about it!
Hugs,
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