The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting isn’t just a New York City tradition — it’s a holiday moment watched by millions around the world. Whether you’re planning to visit in person or tune in from home, one big question always pops up every year: What time is the Rockefeller Tree lighting?
🎄 When Is the 2025 Rockefeller Tree Lighting?
For 2025, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is scheduled for:
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Wednesday, December 3, 2025
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Coverage starts at 7:00 p.m. ET
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Televised special airs from 8:00–10:00 p.m. ET
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The actual “light-up moment” happens just before 10:00 p.m. ET
This is the typical pattern every year: early coverage, a star-filled two-hour holiday broadcast, and the big illumination happening near the end.
If you want the simple answer:
👉 Be ready by 7 p.m. ET. The tree lights around 9:45–10 p.m. ET.
📺 How to Watch the Tree Lighting (U.S. & Worldwide)
The Rockefeller Lighting ceremony is designed for everyone, whether you're in New York or watching from a cozy living room somewhere else.
Here’s how to catch it:
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Television: It airs nationwide on a major U.S. broadcast network.
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Streaming: The full special is available on a major Peacock-style platform, typically simulcast with the TV broadcast.
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Spanish-language broadcast: A U.S. Spanish-language network carries the show, usually airing close to the main program’s schedule.
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Pre-show: Begins at 7 p.m. ET, featuring interviews, performances, and behind-the-scenes coverage.
If you’re outside the U.S., just convert the broadcast time from Eastern Time (ET) to your local timezone.
🌟 What to Expect From the 2025 Ceremony
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting has evolved from a simple decoration into a nationally recognized holiday event with celebrity hosts, musical performances, and theatrical segments.
The Tree Itself
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A 75-foot Norway spruce will serve as the centerpiece for 2025.
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It’s decorated with around 50,000 multicolored LED lights.
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The star topper is typically a dazzling Swarovski-type crystal design weighing hundreds of pounds.
Hosts & Performers
The ceremony traditionally features:
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Celebrity hosts from well-known morning shows
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A major country-music headliner (2025 follows that trend)
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Additional stars from pop, R&B, Broadway, and classical genres
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A special appearance by the Radio City Rockettes, who celebrate their 100th anniversary in 2025
After the Event
Once lit, the tree stays illuminated daily until early to mid-January, giving visitors several weeks to enjoy it.
Typical lighting schedule:
5:00 a.m. – midnight daily
(On holidays like Christmas, it may stay lit for 24 hours.)
🗽 Tips for Watching or Visiting (Helpful for Everyone)
If You’re Watching from Home
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Tune in early — the pre-show often includes exclusive segments.
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Plan for a full two-hour broadcast if you want the performances.
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The actual lighting always happens late in the program, so don’t tune out too soon.
If You’re Visiting New York
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Expect very large crowds — sometimes thousands pack the Rockefeller Plaza area.
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Arrive hours before the ceremony if you want a view.
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If you hate crowds, visit the tree early in the morning or several days after the lighting.
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For the best photos, aim for late evenings on weekdays after the first week.
If You’re Watching From Another Time Zone
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Convert the 7 p.m. and 8–10 p.m. ET schedule to your local time.
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Many overseas viewers rely on streaming platforms, which often allow replay playback a few hours after the live broadcast.
🎁 Why the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Still Matters
For decades, the Rockefeller Tree Lighting has marked the official start of the holiday season for many families. Even people who have never been to New York still feel connected to the tradition — the towering tree, the glowing lights, the winter atmosphere, and the sense of togetherness.
Every year, the ceremony blends nostalgia with modern entertainment. From the massive crowds to the televised special, it feels both iconic and fresh — a reminder of how simple traditions can create lasting memories.
The 2025 celebration is especially meaningful due to milestone performances and the blend of classic and contemporary holiday artistry. Whether you’re attending in person or watching from home, it’s a moment meant to be shared.
If you’re searching “What time is the Rockefeller Tree Lighting?” here’s the final answer:
The 2025 Rockefeller Tree Lighting takes place on December 3. TV coverage starts at 7 p.m. ET, the holiday special airs from 8–10 p.m. ET, and the tree lights shortly before 10 p.m. ET.
Whether you plan to watch it live, stream it later, or visit the tree in the following weeks, the tradition continues to shine as one of the most anticipated holiday events in the world.