The Iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is an annual holiday tradition that has become synonymous with the festive season in New York City. A towering evergreen adorned with twinkling lights, this iconic symbol of the holidays draws crowds of tourists and locals alike to the heart of Midtown Manhattan. But where does this famous tree come from, and how is it chosen? In this article, we will explore the history and sourcing of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
A Brief History of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The tradition of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree dates back to 1931 when a group of construction workers erected a small balsam fir in the center of the construction site. The tree was decorated with handmade garlands and other ornaments, and the workers gathered around it to celebrate the holiday season. The following year, the Rockefeller Center management decided to make the tree an annual tradition, and a much larger, more elaborate tree was installed in the plaza. Over the years, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has grown in size and spectacle, becoming one of the most iconic symbols of the holiday season in New York City.
The Search for the Perfect Tree
Each year, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is carefully selected from forests and private properties across the United States. The search for the perfect tree begins months in advance, with scouts scouring the countryside for trees that meet the strict criteria set by the Rockefeller Center team.
Criteria for Selecting the Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree must be at least 75 feet tall and 45 feet wide, with a dense and symmetrical shape. The tree must also be healthy and strong enough to withstand the rigors of transportation and installation. The ideal tree is a Norway spruce, although other varieties have been used in the past.
Who Provides the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is typically donated by a private individual or company. In some cases, the tree is purchased from a local tree farmer or harvested from a nearby forest. Once the tree is selected, the donor receives a small donation from Rockefeller Center in recognition of their contribution.
How is the Tree Chosen?
The process of selecting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a closely guarded secret. However, it is known that the tree is chosen by a team of experts who evaluate hundreds of potential candidates before selecting the perfect specimen. The final decision is made based on a combination of factors, including size, shape, and overall aesthetic appeal.
Transportation of the Tree to Rockefeller Center
Once the tree is selected, it is cut down and transported to Rockefeller Center on a flatbed truck. The journey can take several days, depending on the distance and terrain involved. In some cases, the tree is flown to New York City by helicopter or cargo plane.
Installation and Decoration of the Tree
Once the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree arrives in New York City, it is hoisted into place by a crane and secured in a specially designed stand. The tree is then decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments, a process that takes several weeks to complete.
Lighting Ceremony: A New York City Tradition
The lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most anticipated events of the holiday season in New York City. Each year, thousands of people gather in Rockefeller Plaza to watch as the tree is illuminated for the first time. The lighting ceremony typically takes place in late November or early December and is broadcast live on television for viewers around the world.
What Happens to the Tree After Christmas?
After the holiday season is over, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is recycled in a variety of ways. In some cases, the tree is chipped into mulch and used to enrich soil in parks and gardens across the city. In other cases, the tree is used to build habitats for wildlife or to create furniture and other objects.
Environmental Impact of the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center
While the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is undoubtedly a beloved holiday tradition, it does have an environmental impact. The tree must be grown for several decades before it reaches the size required for Rockefeller Center, and the transportation and disposal of the tree can result in significant carbon emissions. However, the Rockefeller Center team works to mitigate this impact by sourcing trees from sustainable forests and partnering with various organizations to reduce emissions.
Conclusion: The Symbolism of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is more than just a holiday decoration – it is a symbol of hope, joy, and community. The tree brings people together from all walks of life to celebrate the season and share in the magic of the holidays. Whether it is a towering evergreen or a modest balsam fir, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree represents the spirit of the season and the enduring power of tradition.
