2024 Rockefeller Christmas Tree: The Rockefeller Christmas Tree ceremony: date, time and how to watch it live

The iconic Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, a treasured annual tradition, will once again brighten the holiday season. With its stunning lights, celebrity appearances and festive atmosphere, the event marks the official start of New York City’s Christmas celebrations.

Here’s everything you need to know about the 2024 Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, including the date, time and how to tune in.

When and where you can watch the ceremony

This year’s Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting ceremony will take place on Monday, December 4, 2024 and will be broadcast live. The event will air from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET on NBC and streaming platform Peacock, as mentioned in a report by USA Today.

Whether you’re in the comfort of your own home or joining the live audience at Rockefeller Center, the two-hour celebration promises heartwarming Christmas magic.

A historic tree for 2024

The centerpiece of the event, a towering Christmas tree, was transported from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts. This was the first time since 1959 that a tree from this state was selected.

The massive spruce arrived in New York City on November 9th, where it was carefully prepared for its big debut. Featuring over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and topped with a shimmering Swarovski star, the tree will serve as a beacon of holiday cheer.

Star-studded performances and presenters

This year’s ceremony will be hosted by none other than Kelly Clarkson, returning for the second year in a row. She shared her excitement on The Kelly Clarkson Show and described the magic of New York City at Christmas: “Living here during the holidays feels like you’re in a movie. There’s nothing like it.”

Clarkson will be joined by NBC TODAY anchors Craig Melvin, Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb, who will add their signature charm to the event.

A number of outstanding artists will make the evening unforgettable. The stage will light up with acts including:

• Radio City Rockettes
• Jennifer Hudson
• Coco Jones
• Megan Hilty
• Small big city
• Thalia
• RAYE
• The Backstreet Boys
• Dan + Shay

Here’s how to take part in the celebrations

For those unable to attend the event in person, broadcasting live on NBC or streaming via Peacock will ensure you don’t miss a moment of the celebration.

If you’re in New York City, we recommend arriving early at Rockefeller Center to ensure a good vantage point for this dazzling Christmas spectacle.

FAQs:

What time is the Rockefeller Christmas tree lit?
The live broadcast is scheduled for December 4th at 8pm ET on NBC and Peacock.

Who started the Rockefeller Christmas tree?
Rockefeller Center employees collectively donated money to purchase a Christmas tree, a 20-foot-tall balsam fir. They decorated it with handmade garlands made by their families. A photo taken on Christmas Eve shows workers queuing under the festive tree to receive their wages.