2026 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

The 2026 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is coming from West Edmeston, New York. The 76-foot-tall Norway spruce, approximately 75 years old, is scheduled to arrive at Rockefeller Plaza in New York City on November 7, bringing one of the holiday season’s most beloved traditions back to Manhattan.

The official tree-lighting ceremony is scheduled right here on NBC Watertown Wednesday, December 2, 2026, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET. The tree will be decorated with more than 50,000 multicolored LED lights and topped with the famous Swarovski star, featuring approximately three million crystals. Visitors can enjoy the display in Rockefeller Plaza, with free public viewing throughout the holiday season.

The tree is expected to remain on display through January 9, 2027. After the holidays, its wood will be donated to Habitat for Humanity to support homebuilding projects. Whether you're a New York resident or planning a holiday visit, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see attraction that captures the magic of the season.

What will make this year's tree special?

*The star: The famous Swarovski crystal star, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, weighs about 900 pounds and features roughly three million crystals across 70 spikes.
**The lights: More than 50,000 multicolored LED lights will be strung along approximately five miles of wire.
***Its journey: The tree will be cut down on November 5 and transported roughly 200 miles from central New York to Manhattan.
****Its second life: Rather than simply being discarded after Christmas, the tree will become lumber used to help build homes.