As Andy Williams’ classic reminds us, it’s the most wonderful time of the year and nowhere is that more evident than beneath the glow of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Each December the towering tree transforms Midtown Manhattan into a winter wonderland. For generations, these different trees have had an immense impact on the history of New York City.
Every year the trees are chosen by Erik Pauze, the Rockefeller Center head gardener who goes out scouting for candidates. This year’s tree is truly remarkable, a towering Norway spruce tree, that will transform Rockefeller Center into the heart of the holiday season.
Like those before it, this tree arrived as a gift. Judy Russ donated the 75-foot-tall spruce in honor of her late husband Dan Russ. The tree was first planted in the 1920s by Dan Russ’ great-grandparents on their Rensselaer County property. The Russ family tree becoming one of the Rockefeller Center Christmas trees was a dream of the couple.
“It’s so special that my family’s tree gets to be America’s, if not the world’s Christmas tree,” Judy Russ said.
The tree is placed at Rockefeller Center, the stage for this tradition since 1931. What began as a simple gesture from construction workers has grown into a nationally celebrated event. The tradition has lasted for nearly a century, evolving from a small community display into a nationally televised ceremony. The tree lighting now features musical performances and attracts visitors from near and far.
For many, this special occasion marks the official start of the holiday season, with millions eager to witness the iconic symbol each year. When the holiday season comes to an end, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is carefully taken down. Crews dismantle the spruce and prepare it to be milled into lumber. The wood is then donated to Habitat for Humanity, where it is used to build homes.
The tree will be lit on Dec. 3 during the nationally televised “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” ceremony. Millions of viewers across the country will tune in to watch more than 50,000 multicolored LED lights and the iconic Swarovski star illuminate the city.
The Rockefeller tree is expected to remain on display through mid-January. Visitors from all over will be able to see the tree as it brightens up the city until it is prepared to take on its next chapter in helping others.
It is a tradition that bridges the gap between present and past, reminding us that the joy of the holiday season lies in gathering for a shared purpose. Its presence serves as a reminder that the true meaning of the holidays is found in generosity and giving back to the community.
