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Every end of the year, millions of people turn their gaze toward one of the most beloved symbols of the Christmas season in the United States: the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
This tradition, which began more than nine decades ago in the heart of Manhattan, will return in 2026 with an impressive specimen from New York State that promises to become one of the main attractions of the season.
This is the 2026 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
The tree chosen for the 2026 Christmas season is a Norway spruce approximately 23 meters tall, originating from West Edmeston, a town located in the state of New York.
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The imposing specimen is about 75 years old, measures nearly 15 meters in diameter, and weighs about 11 tons. Its transport to Manhattan represents the official start of one of the most iconic traditions of the holiday season in the Big Apple.
As happens every year, the tree will be installed at Rockefeller Plaza, where it will become the center of attention for local visitors and tourists from all over the world.
When does the tree arrive at Rockefeller Center?
The tree arrived on November 7, 2026, a date that officially marks the beginning of the Christmas season at Rockefeller Center.
A tradition that began in 1931
The history of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree dates back to 1931, when workers involved in the complex's construction placed a small tree decorated with handmade garlands.
Two years later, in 1933, an official lighting ceremony was held for the first time, giving rise to a celebration that, over time, became one of the most recognizable postcards of New York during the holidays.
Currently, the tree selection process is led by Erik Pauzé, head gardener at Rockefeller Center, who has spent more than three decades looking for the ideal specimen to occupy the place of honor in the plaza.
"What I look for is a tree that you would want to have in your living room, but on a larger scale. It has to make people smile the moment they see it," Pauzé has explained regarding the criteria guiding the annual selection.
When will the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting take place?
One of the most anticipated moments of the season will be the traditional lighting ceremony.
In 2026, the event will take place on Wednesday, December 2, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, when thousands of attendees and millions of viewers follow the official lighting of the famous tree.
More than 50 thousand lights and a Swarovski star
As is tradition, the tree will shine with an impressive display of more than 50 thousand multicolored LED lights distributed along approximately eight kilometers of cable.
At the very top will be the spectacular Swarovski star designed by architect Daniel Libeskind in 2018.
This piece weighs about 408 kilograms and is formed by 70 points covered with around three million crystals, becoming one of the most photographed elements of the entire New York Christmas decoration.
Until when can the tree be visited?
After its lighting on December 2, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will remain on display throughout the Christmas season and the first days of January, becoming one of the most visited places in Manhattan.
Visitors will be able to admire it from Rockefeller Plaza, enjoy The Rink ice skating rink under its lit branches, or capture the moment through the official tree photo experience.
In addition, those looking for a privileged view will be able to purchase the Holiday Top of the Rock experience, which offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city from the 70th floor and special access to photograph the tree at plaza level.
A symbol of generosity that continues after Christmas
The story of the tree does not end when the December celebrations conclude.
Following a long-standing tradition, the tree will be turned into lumber and donated to Habitat for Humanity, an organization that will use the material to support community and housing projects.
Likewise, after the felling, the property where the tree originally grew is usually reforested with new trees or vegetation, allowing the tradition to continue in a sustainable manner.
The heart of Christmas in New York
From its origin in West Edmeston to its installation in Rockefeller Plaza, the 2026 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree represents much more than a festive decoration. It is a tradition that combines history, community, solidarity, and Christmas spirit, turning the heart of Manhattan once again into one of the most magical destinations of the season.
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[Publicidad]