2024 Rockefeller Christmas Tree: Rockefeller Christmas Tree Ceremony: Date, Time and How to Watch It Live

The iconic Rockefeller Christmas Lighting Ceremony, a beloved annual tradition, is ready to light up the Christmas season once again. With its stunning lights, celebrity appearances and festive atmosphere, the event marks the official start of Christmas celebrations in New York City.

Here’s everything you need to know about the 2024 Rockefeller Christmas Lighting Ceremony, including its date, time and how to tune in.

When and where to see the ceremony

This year’s Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Monday, December 4, 2024 and will be broadcast live. The event will air from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM ET on NBC and streaming platform Peacock, as mentioned in a report by USA Today.

Whether you’re in the comfort of your home or joining the live crowd at Rockefeller Center, the two-hour celebration promises to deliver heartwarming Christmas magic.

A historic tree for 2024

The centerpiece of the event, a towering Christmas tree, was transported from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, marking the first time since 1959 that a tree from that state has been selected.

The massive Norwegian spruce arrived in New York City on November 9th, where it was carefully prepared for its grand debut. Adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and topped with a sparkling Swarovski star, the tree will stand as a beacon of holiday cheer.

Star-studded performances and hosts

This year’s ceremony will be hosted by none other than Kelly Clarkson, returning for the second year in a row. Sharing her excitement on The Kelly Clarkson Show, she described the magic of New York City during Christmas: “Living here for the holidays feels like being in a movie. There’s nothing else like it.”

Along with Clarkson, NBC’s TODAY anchors Craig Melvin, Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb will add their signature charm to the event.

A number of fantastic artists are ready to make the evening unforgettable. The stage will light up with acts including:

• Radio City Rockettes
• Jennifer Hudson
• Coco Jones
• Megan Hilty
• Small big city
• Thalia
• RAY
• Backstreet Boys
• Dan + Shay

How to participate in the festivities

For those unable to attend the event in person, watching the live broadcast on NBC or streaming it via Peacock will ensure you don’t miss a moment of the celebration.

If you’re in New York City, it’s recommended to arrive at Rockefeller Center early to secure a good vantage point for this dazzling holiday spectacle.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What time does Rockefeller light the Christmas tree?
The live broadcast is scheduled for December 4 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.

Who started the Rockefeller Christmas tree?
Rockefeller Center workers jointly contributed funds to purchase a Christmas tree, a 20-foot balsam fir. They decorated it with handmade garlands made by their families. A picture taken on Christmas Eve captures the workers queuing to receive their wages under the festive tree.