Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony

Rockefeller Center lit up tonight as the 2025 Christmas tree lighting ceremony drew 30,000 in person and 15 million TV viewers. The 82-foot tree—X hit 180,000 posts—glowed with 55,000 LEDs; Kelly Clarkson and Jennifer Hudson performed. Free public viewing filled the plaza; $20 cocoa sold 10,000. Lighting flipped at 9:02 p.m. NYC holidays—tree shines.

50,000 multi-colored lights and a 900-pound Swarovski star crowned the tree; a Harlem choir’s “O Holy Night” went viral. Tradition since 1933 draws 750,000 nightly visitors, per city data. Pop-up ice rink spun below. New drone show lit the sky. A Bronx family watched their 25th lighting. Rockefeller’s vibe—NYC’s holiday heart.

It’s not perfect—crowds thick; toes frozen. Still, 30K cheering and perfect glow made pure magic, with 99% calling it “holiday perfection.” Post-lighting, Fifth Avenue buzzed with wonder. Season bright—NYC glows.

Clarkson’s 43—voice queen? Tree’s 82—star king. Rockefeller sparkled; NYC smiled. Tree Lighting—shine on.