Story perspectives

Rockefeller Center Unveils 75-Foot Christmas Tree in NYC

11/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree was raised in Manhattan on November 8, marking the start of the holiday season in New York City.
This year's 75-foot Norway spruce traveled 150 miles from East Greenbush, New York, and weighs 11 tons.
The tree will feature over 50,000 LED lights and a 900-pound Swarovski star, with a lighting ceremony scheduled for December 3, hosted by Reba McEntire.
After the season, the tree will be repurposed into lumber for Habitat for Humanity.
Judy Russ, the tree's donor, expressed her family's pride in this tradition.

History

Historical Context

The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree tradition began in 1931, during the Great Depression, when workers erected a modest 20-foot balsam fir. The first official lighting occurred in 1933, marking the tree as a holiday symbol. Today, a 75-foot Norway spruce adorned with 50,000 LED lights reflects its evolution, while supporting Habitat for Humanity emphasizes community commitment.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree was raised in Manhattan on November 8, marking the start of the holiday season in New York City.
This year's 75-foot Norway spruce traveled 150 miles from East Greenbush, New York, and weighs 11 tons.
The tree will feature over 50,000 LED lights and a 900-pound Swarovski star, with a lighting ceremony scheduled for December 3, hosted by Reba McEntire.
After the season, the tree will be repurposed into lumber for Habitat for Humanity.
Judy Russ, the tree's donor, expressed her family's pride in this tradition.

1 / 2