Tree lighting NYC reaches its iconic December 3 ceremony with Reba McEntire hosting one of America’s most beloved holiday traditions. The legendary country music star oversees performances from Michael Bublé, Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Gwen Stefani, and a star-studded lineup that brings Christmas magic to Rockefeller Center.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Ceremony Time: The iconic tree lighting happens at 10:00 PM EST on December 3, with NBC broadcast from 8-10 PM ET
- Tree Details: A 75-foot-tall Norway spruce from East Greenbush, New York features 50,000 multicolored lights and a 900-pound star
- Historic Lineup: Reba McEntire hosts with performances from Michael Bublé, Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Brad Paisley, Gwen Stefani, and the Radio City Rockettes
- Stream Access: Watch live on NBC or stream on Peacock for free accessibility across the nation
Tree Lighting NYC Tonight Features World-Class Performers and Reba’s Iconic Hosting
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The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting marks another year of holiday excellence with Reba McEntire bringing her signature warmth and star power to the celebration. The country music legend will host and perform at this year’s ceremony, bringing decades of entertainment expertise to the nation’s most-watched tree lighting.
Rockefeller Center transforms into a dazzling showcase of seasonal cheer with celebrity appearances and festive performances throughout the evening. The ceremony broadcasts live on NBC from 8 to 10 PM ET, allowing millions to witness the magical moment when the iconic tree illuminates.
The Magnificent 75-Foot Norway Spruce and 50,000 Lights Create Holiday Wonder
| Tree Specification | Details |
| Height | 75 feet tall |
| Diameter | 45 feet wide |
| Weight | 11 tons |
| Lights | 50,000 multicolored lights |
| Topper Star | 900-pound star |
| Origin | East Greenbush, New York (150 miles away) |
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This year’s magnificent specimen traveled from the Russ family home in East Greenbush, a heartfelt donation made in honor of family memories. The tree was expertly cut on November 6 and arrived at Rockefeller Center on November 8 after its 130-mile journey.
The 75-foot Norway spruce stands approximately 75 years old, representing decades of growth captured in a single spectacular display. Once illuminated, it becomes a beacon of holiday spirit visible to thousands gathering at the plaza and millions watching from homes across America.
Star-Studded Performer Lineup Brings Entertainment Magic to the Ceremony
Michael Bublé, Marc Anthony, and Halle Bailey headline the entertainment alongside Reba McEntire, creating an unforgettable entertainment experience. The lineup reflects diverse musical genres from jazz to pop to country, ensuring something for every holiday music lover.
Additional performers include Brad Paisley, Gwen Stefani, Kristin Chenoweth, Carly Pearce, Laufey, New Edition, and the iconic Radio City Rockettes celebrating their stunning 100-year milestone. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular dancers bring their legendary precision and glamour to the ceremony, adding a classic Broadway flair to the proceedings.
“This year’s show will be hosted by Reba McEntire with a slew of celebrities performing at the 2025 Rockefeller Center tree lighting.”
— NBC News, Official Coverage
How to Watch Tree Lighting NYC and Stream the Ceremony Across Devices
The ceremony airs live on NBC tonight from 8 to 10 PM ET, with the actual tree lighting occurring near the end of the broadcast window. The special is titled “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” and brings decades of holiday tradition into living rooms nationwide.
Peacock offers free streaming access to the special, allowing cord-cutters and streaming enthusiasts to enjoy the ceremony without cable subscriptions. Streaming begins on Thursday, December 4, ensuring those who miss the live broadcast can still experience the magic.
What Makes Tonight’s Ceremony Special and Why This Tree Lighting Matters
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting represents more than entertainment—it marks the official launch of the holiday season for millions. Since 1933, this annual tradition has captivated audiences, with the iconic tree remaining lit from 5 AM to midnight through mid-January.
On Christmas Eve, the tree burns for a full 24 hours, creating an extended celebration during the most magical night of the year. Tonight’s ceremony solidifies Rockefeller Center as America’s premier holiday destination, drawing crowds to the 30 Rockefeller Plaza location throughout the season.
Creating Lasting Holiday Memories at the Tree Lighting NYC
Families and friends can witness the magic in person by gathering at Rockefeller Plaza during the ceremony, though the area will be heavily crowded. The combination of live performances, celebrity appearances, and the dramatic tree lighting moment creates unforgettable memories.
The Extended Holiday Experience
After tonight’s lighting, visitors can experience the tree throughout the season, combining the tree viewing with ice skating at the famous Rockefeller Center Skating Rink and holiday shopping along Fifth Avenue for a complete seasonal experience.
Why Tree Lighting NYC Remains America’s Most Iconic Holiday Celebration Tonight?
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting endures as America’s most beloved holiday tradition because it combines spectacle, celebrity, nostalgia, and togetherness. Reba McEntire‘s hosting brings authentic warmth to the proceedings while the international lineup of performers ensures universal appeal.
The ceremony’s longevity—spanning over 90 years—connects generations of families who gather annually to witness this moment. Whether attending in person at the Manhattan plaza or joining millions watching on NBC, tonight’s tree lighting cements the holiday season’s official beginning.
Sources
- NBC News — Live coverage and performer announcements for December 3 ceremony
- Rockefeller Center Official — Tree specifications, lighting times, and historical information
- NBC Entertainment — Complete performer lineup and broadcast details
Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.