Rockefeller Center announces its 2026 Christmas tree in New York City

New York City’s Rockefeller Center has selected its Christmas tree for the 2026 holiday season: a 75-year-old Norway spruce from West Edmeston, in central New York State. The tree is scheduled to arrive in Manhattan on November 7, with the official lighting ceremony set for Wednesday, December 2.

According to information published by amNY, the tree was donated by Rebecca Decker. It stands 76 feet tall, measures 50 feet in diameter and weighs approximately 11 tons. It will travel about 200 miles from its hometown to one of the most recognizable holiday destinations in the United States.

The tree’s arrival marks the beginning of preparations for a tradition that attracts large crowds of residents and tourists to Midtown Manhattan each year.

When will the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree arrive?

The tree is scheduled to be cut down on Thursday, November 5, and transported to Manhattan on Saturday, November 7. Once installed in Rockefeller Center Plaza, between Fifth and Sixth avenues, workers will begin decorating it for the holiday season.

The arrival date is separate from the official lighting ceremony. Visitors in November may see the tree at different stages of installation and decoration as preparations continue.

When is the 2026 Christmas tree lighting ceremony?

The official lighting ceremony will take place on Wednesday, December 2, at 7 p.m. Eastern Time, during the televised special Christmas in Rockefeller Center.

The tree will feature more than 50,000 energy-efficient, multicolored LED lights distributed along approximately five miles of lighting. A Swarovski star will crown the tree, continuing a long-standing Rockefeller Center tradition.

The ceremony is one of New York City’s best-known holiday events. Those unable to attend in person will be able to watch the televised broadcast.

How long will the tree remain on display?

The tree is scheduled to remain on display through Saturday, January 9, 2027. Visitors will be able to view it from Rockefeller Center Plaza and from The Rink, the complex’s ice-skating rink. Further details about visiting hours and access are expected to be announced later.

After the holiday season, the tree’s wood will be donated to Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit organization that builds and improves homes for families.

The arrangement gives the tree a second purpose after its role in New York’s holiday celebrations comes to an end.

With the tree selected and preparations approaching, Rockefeller Center is beginning its countdown to Christmas, welcoming residents and visitors to one of Manhattan’s most celebrated seasonal traditions.