Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of the most iconic holiday traditions in New York City. Every year, a massive Christmas tree is erected at Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world. The tree is not only a symbol of the holiday season but also a symbol of hope and joy.
History of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The tradition of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree dates back to the 1930s when construction workers erected a small Christmas tree at the site of the Rockefeller Center construction site. In 1933, the first official Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree was erected, measuring a modest 20 feet tall. Since then, the tree has grown in size and spectacle, becoming a symbol of the holiday season in New York City.
The tradition of the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is an annual event that takes place on the Wednesday after Thanksgiving. The event is broadcast live on television and features performances by popular musicians and celebrities. The highlight of the event is the lighting of the Christmas tree, which is illuminated by thousands of LED lights and topped with a Swarovski crystal star.
How is the tree chosen and transported to Rockefeller Center?
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is chosen each year by the head gardener at Rockefeller Center, who scours the country for the perfect tree. The chosen tree is then cut down and transported to Rockefeller Center, where it is erected in front of the iconic Rockefeller Center ice rink. The transportation process can be a logistical challenge, as the tree must be transported via truck and crane.
What is the measurement of the tree’s height?
The height of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree varies each year, but it typically stands between 70 and 100 feet tall. The tallest tree ever erected at Rockefeller Center was a Norway Spruce that stood at 100 feet tall.
How is the height of the tree measured?
The height of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is measured from the base of the tree to the tip of the top branch. The measurement is taken before the tree is erected at Rockefeller Center.
When is the tree installed and decorated?
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is installed and decorated in late November, just before the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. The tree is decorated with thousands of LED lights and topped with a Swarovski crystal star.
How long is the tree displayed for public viewing?
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is displayed for public viewing from late November through early January. During this time, thousands of visitors flock to Rockefeller Center to see the tree and take in the holiday decorations.
What happens to the tree after it is taken down?
After the holiday season is over, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is dismantled and recycled. The tree is often used for lumber or mulch, and sometimes even donated to be used as habitat for fish and wildlife.
Interesting facts about the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
- The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been featured in several famous movies, including Elf and Home Alone 2.
- The Swarovski crystal star that tops the tree weighs 900 pounds and contains 25,000 crystals.
- The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been a symbol of hope and joy for New Yorkers during difficult times, including the Great Depression and the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
Conclusion: A symbol of hope and joy during the holiday season
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a beloved holiday tradition that brings joy and hope to New Yorkers and visitors from around the world. The tree is not only a symbol of the holiday season but also a symbol of resilience and perseverance during difficult times. Whether you are a New Yorker or a tourist, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see during the holiday season.
References and further reading
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/holidays/rockefeller-center-christmas-tree/
10 Facts About the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: https://www.history.com/news/rockefeller-center-christmas-tree-facts
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: A New York City Icon: https://www.nycgo.com/articles/rockefeller-center-christmas-tree
