The anticipation is mounting as the countdown has begun for the annual lighting ceremony of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Known as one of the most prominent holiday traditions in the United States, the Rockefeller Center is gearing up to bring the holiday spirit to New Yorkers once again.
The stunning spruce that acts as the center’s main holiday attraction stands in the heart of Manhattan. Under normal circumstances, thousands of people would typically gather around the towering tree, participating in the collective countdown to the illumination of its thousands of twinkling lights.
This year’s tree was selected from Oneonta, New York, producer of many previous giant spruces for the occasion. A sight to behold, it will be adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and topped with the traditional Swarovski crystal star. Once lit, the grand tree can be viewed by the public during the Christmas season, serving as a beacon of holiday cheer in the city.
Different from other years, due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the ceremony’s organizers have made significant adjustments to ensure the safety of the public. There will be no public access to this year’s tree lighting in order to avoid large crowd gatherings.
Despite these changes, the Rockefeller Center has made arrangements to ensure the tradition continues. It will live stream the event globally, bringing the annual spectacle straight into homes around the world. In this unique way, the Christmas spirit will undoubtedly be felt far beyond the bustling streets of New York.
These alterations to the usual festive proceedings are a testament to the times we live in, providing a stark reminder of the current global health crisis. However, the Rockefeller Center’s commitment to maintain this decades-old tradition exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of New Yorkers, and the world at large.
While this year’s celebration may be markedly different from what has been known, the essence of the event, which brings joy, unity, and the spirit of the season, carries on undiminished.
Last modified: December 1, 2024
