New York City, November 9, 2025
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has arrived in Manhattan, marking the beginning of the holiday season. This 75-foot Norway spruce, donated by Judy Russ and her family, traveled 150 miles from East Greenbush. It will be decorated with over 50,000 LED lights and feature a Swarovski crystal star. The official lighting ceremony is set for December 3, and the tree will be on display until mid-January, after which it will be recycled for Habitat for Humanity.
New York City Welcomes 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
New York City – The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has arrived in Manhattan, marking the official start of the city’s holiday season. The 75-foot Norway spruce, weighing 11 tons, was hoisted into place at 30 Rockefeller Plaza on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
Details of the Tree’s Arrival
The tree, donated by Judy Russ and her family, was cut down earlier this week in East Greenbush, a suburb of Albany. It traveled approximately 150 miles to Manhattan, drawing curious onlookers along the way. Upon arrival, workers used cranes to position the 11-ton spruce overlooking the iconic skating rink at Rockefeller Plaza.
Upcoming Lighting Ceremony
The tree will be adorned with over 50,000 multicolored, energy-efficient LED lights and topped with a 900-pound Swarovski crystal star. The official lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 3, 2025, and will be broadcast live. The tree will remain on display until mid-January 2026, after which it will be recycled into lumber for Habitat for Humanity.
Historical Significance
The tradition of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree dates back to 1931, when workers erected the first tree during the Great Depression. The inaugural lighting ceremony was held in 1933, and the event has since become a cherished annual celebration in New York City.
Weather Forecast
Current Conditions: Partly cloudy, 56°F (13°C)
Daily Forecast:
- Saturday, November 8: Low: 47°F (8°C), High: 66°F (19°C), Description: A shower in spots early in the morning; otherwise, times of clouds and sun
- Sunday, November 9: Low: 54°F (12°C), High: 63°F (17°C), Description: Periods of rain and drizzle beginning in the late morning
- Monday, November 10: Low: 36°F (2°C), High: 58°F (14°C), Description: A shower in places in the morning; otherwise, breezy with clouds giving way to some sun
- Tuesday, November 11: Low: 38°F (4°C), High: 45°F (7°C), Description: Breezy with clouds and sunshine
- Wednesday, November 12: Low: 44°F (7°C), High: 52°F (11°C), Description: Mostly cloudy
- Thursday, November 13: Low: 41°F (5°C), High: 55°F (13°C), Description: Partly sunny
- Friday, November 14: Low: 39°F (4°C), High: 54°F (12°C), Description: Thickening clouds
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the official lighting ceremony for the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
The official lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 3, 2025, and will be broadcast live.
How long will the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree be on display?
The tree will remain on display until mid-January 2026.
What happens to the tree after the holiday season?
After the holiday season, the tree will be recycled into lumber for Habitat for Humanity.
Where did the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree come from?
The 2025 tree was donated by Judy Russ and her family and was cut down in East Greenbush, a suburb of Albany, New York.
What is the history of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
The tradition dates back to 1931, when workers erected the first tree during the Great Depression. The inaugural lighting ceremony was held in 1933, and the event has since become a cherished annual celebration in New York City.
Key Features of the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 75 feet |
| Weight | 11 tons |
| Location | 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Manhattan, New York City |
| Lighting Ceremony Date | December 3, 2025 |
| Display Duration | Until mid-January 2026 |
| Recycling Plan | Converted into lumber for Habitat for Humanity |
| Donor | Judy Russ and her family |
| Origin | East Greenbush, New York |
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