The Rockefeller Center in New York City is renowned for its iconic Christmas tree and the extensive holiday decorations that accompany it. For visitors planning their trip around this festive season, knowing when the decorations go up can significantly enhance their experience. Here's an in-depth look at the timeline for the 2023 Rockefeller Christmas decorations:
The Process of Erecting the Christmas Tree
The selection and preparation of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a meticulous process:
- Tree Selection: The search for the perfect tree starts months in advance. Typically, a Norway Spruce or a Blue Spruce, standing between 70 to 100 feet tall, is chosen for its ideal shape, density, and ability to withstand urban conditions.
- Transport: The tree is usually donated, and a team ensures its safe transport to New York City, where it arrives on a flatbed truck, often drawing crowds even at this early stage.
- Erection: With the help of cranes, the tree is hoisted into place. The setting up of the tree involves:
- Securing the base to avoid toppling due to wind or ice.
- Installation of an internal steel structure for additional stability.
- Attachment of over 50,000 multicolored LED lights and more than 3 million crystals.
💡 Note: The size and weight of the tree require careful planning and specialized equipment for its installation.
The Lighting of the Tree
The Lighting Ceremony is a major event:
- Date: For 2023, the lighting ceremony is scheduled for November 30th, marking the official start of the Christmas season at Rockefeller Center.
- Time: The ceremony typically occurs in the evening, live on NBC, featuring musical performances, celebrity guests, and, of course, the tree lighting.
- After the Ceremony: Once lit, the tree remains illuminated nightly, from 5:30 AM to midnight, with extended hours on Christmas Day.
🎄 Note: The ceremony's date might slightly vary, but it usually falls within the last week of November or the first week of December.
The Decorations Around Rockefeller Center
While the tree is the centerpiece, the entire Rockefeller Center area is transformed into a winter wonderland:
- Angels: Atop the main building, large angelic figures appear, symbolizing the Christmas message of hope.
- Wreaths and Lights: Throughout the plaza, wreaths and strings of lights illuminate the area, creating a festive atmosphere.
- Skating Rink: The famous rink is kept frozen for the season, with lights and decorations around its edges enhancing the holiday spirit.
- Shop Windows: The nearby stores, like Saks Fifth Avenue, feature animated Christmas displays.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Tree Lighting Ceremony | November 30, 2023 |
| Tree Lighting Hours | 5:30 AM - Midnight (Extended hours on Christmas Day) |
| Angels | Large figures atop Rockefeller Plaza's buildings |
| Skating Rink | Seasonal ice rink with festive lighting |
🌟 Note: The decorations around Rockefeller Center are carefully designed to complement the tree and enhance the overall holiday vibe.
Now that we’ve covered when the Rockefeller Center Christmas decorations start in 2023, here are some key points to remember:
- The tree selection process starts months in advance, with the tree being erected and adorned with thousands of lights.
- The Lighting Ceremony on November 30th signals the official beginning of the holiday season.
- Not just the tree, but the entire Rockefeller Center area is transformed with festive decorations, enhancing the visitor experience.
- These decorations remain in place until early January, providing ample opportunity for holiday visitors to experience the magic.
What happens to the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree after the holidays?
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The tree is mulched and recycled, with the wood often donated to Habitat for Humanity for use in home construction.
Can visitors skate at Rockefeller Center’s ice rink all year?
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The rink is seasonal and generally opens in late October and closes in early April.
How are the angels atop Rockefeller Plaza lit?
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They are illuminated with energy-efficient LED lights, ensuring visibility during both day and night.
Is there a fee for viewing the Rockefeller Christmas tree?
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No, viewing the tree is free, although photography fees apply to professional photographers.
