One of the most magical moments of the holiday season is just around the corner, and it’s the kind of event that brings people together in the heart of New York City. The Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2024 is more than just a ceremony — it's a symbol of hope, community, and the joy of the season. If you're planning to be part of this dazzling celebration, or even just watch it from home, you’re going to want to know all the details ahead of time.

The lights will shine bright again this year, and whether you're a first-time viewer or a longtime fan, this event always manages to bring a smile to your face. The 92nd annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony promises to be a night full of music, lights, and unforgettable memories.

So, what exactly can you expect in 2024? From the date and schedule to the performers and how to watch, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into what makes this year’s celebration special, and how you can make the most of it — whether you’re watching in person or from the comfort of your home.

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Table of Contents

• What Is the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony?
• When Is the Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2024?
• Where Does the Ceremony Take Place?
• What to Expect During the Event
• How to Attend the Ceremony in Person
• How to Watch the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Online
• Tree Arrival and Lighting Timeline
• FAQs About Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2024

What Is the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony?

The Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony is a beloved New York City tradition that officially kicks off the holiday season. Every year, a massive Norway spruce is selected and brought to Rockefeller Center, where it’s decorated with thousands of lights and topped with a stunning star. The tree lighting ceremony is filled with live musical performances, celebrity appearances, and a sense of community that's hard to find anywhere else.

This event dates back to the 1930s and has become a symbol of resilience and celebration through the decades. Whether you're watching it on TV or standing in the crowd, the tree lighting is a moment that brings people together — locals and tourists alike — to share in the magic of the season.

When Is the Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2024?

This year’s ceremony will take place on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, just a few days after Thanksgiving. That’s right — the tradition continues of lighting the tree on the Wednesday following the holiday, making it one of the first major holiday events of the season.

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The official lighting is expected to happen in the evening, with festivities starting earlier in the day. Exact timing for the lighting will be announced closer to the event, but it typically falls between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM Eastern Time.

Where Does the Ceremony Take Place?

The ceremony happens right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, at Rockefeller Center between West 48th and 51st Streets, and 5th and 6th Avenues. The tree is placed on the Center Plaza, where it stands proudly for the entire holiday season. Visitors from around the world gather in the surrounding areas to catch a glimpse of the tree and enjoy the live performances that accompany the lighting.

If you're planning to attend in person, it’s a good idea to arrive early — the area gets packed quickly, and you’ll want to find a good viewing spot before the lights go on. For those watching from home, the event will be broadcast live on national television and available for streaming online.

What to Expect During the Event

When the big night arrives, here’s what you can look forward to:

• Live musical performances from top artists and holiday favorites
• Celebrity appearances and special guests
• The official tree lighting — the moment everyone waits for
• Fireworks or special effects to cap off the evening

Each year, the lineup of performers is a highlight, and 2024 will be no different. Past years have featured big names in pop, country, R&B, and even Broadway stars. Keep an eye out for the official announcement of this year’s performers, which usually comes a few weeks before the event.

How to Attend the Ceremony in Person

Attending the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony in person is a once-a-year experience, but it does take a little planning. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:

1. Arrive early – The plaza and surrounding streets fill up quickly, so plan to get there at least a couple of hours before the lighting.
2. Dress warmly – December in New York can be chilly, so bundle up with a coat, gloves, and a hat.
3. Bring snacks and drinks – You might be waiting a while, so pack something to munch on and a thermos with hot cocoa.
4. Check for security restrictions – Backpacks, large bags, and certain items may not be allowed, so review the guidelines ahead of time.
5. Use public transportation – Traffic and parking can be tough around Rockefeller Center, so consider taking the subway or a rideshare.

Even if you’re not right in front of the tree, the atmosphere is still magical. The music, lights, and energy of the crowd make it a memorable experience no matter where you are in the area.

How to Watch the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Online

Can’t make it to New York this year? No worries — you can still enjoy the magic from anywhere in the world. The Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2024 will be broadcast live on national television and available for streaming online.

Here’s how to watch:

• Live TV Broadcast – The event will air on major networks like NBC, which has covered the ceremony for many years.
• Streaming Services – You can stream the ceremony through platforms like NBC.com or the NBC app, as well as YouTube and other streaming services.
• Official Rockefeller Center Website – The Rockefeller Center site may also offer a live stream or highlights from the event.

Set a reminder, grab some popcorn, and enjoy the show from your living room. It’s the perfect way to kick off your holiday celebrations, even if you’re far from Manhattan.

Tree Arrival and Lighting Timeline

The journey of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree begins weeks before the big night. Here’s a quick look at the key dates for 2024:

• Thursday, November 7, 2024 – The tree is cut down in its home location.
• Saturday, November 9, 2024 – The tree arrives at Rockefeller Center and is set up on the plaza.
• Throughout November – The tree is decorated with over 50,000 LED lights and topped with a beautiful Swarovski crystal star.
• Wednesday, December 4, 2024 – The official lighting ceremony takes place in the evening.

Once lit, the tree remains on display until early January, continuing to spread holiday cheer throughout the season. Learn more about Rockefeller Christmas Traditions on our site.

FAQs About Rockefeller Tree Lighting 2024

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the event:

1. Is there a cost to attend the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony?

Nope, the event is free and open to the public. There’s no ticket required to watch the ceremony in person, but be prepared for large crowds and chilly weather.

2. Who is performing at the 2024 tree lighting?

The full lineup of performers will be announced closer to the event. Past years have featured big names like Mariah Carey, Pentatonix, and Kelly Clarkson, so it’s always exciting to see who will take the stage this year.

3. How long is the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony?

The ceremony usually lasts around 90 minutes, including musical performances, speeches, and the final tree lighting. Exact timing can vary, but you can expect it to wrap up by 9:00 PM.

Got more questions? Check out the Frequently Asked Questions section on our site for more details.