Every year, as the holiday season approaches, a majestic Christmas tree graces the heart of New York City. This iconic symbol, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, has been a tradition since 1931. What many don't know are the behind-the-scenes details and the skilled professionals responsible for bringing this festive spirit to life. Let's dive into five surprising facts about the Rockefeller Tree Decorators, the unsung heroes of the holiday season:
1. A Tradition Steeped in History
The first tree was erected by construction workers at Rockefeller Center during the Great Depression, symbolizing hope and festive cheer. The decorating team, initially composed of these workers, has since evolved into a highly skilled crew with a deep-rooted tradition.
⭐ Note: The first tree, in 1931, was adorned with paper garlands, tin cans, and, of course, a tree topper - the star.
2. Selection and Preparation - A Meticulous Process
Selecting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is no small feat:
- Scouting: The process starts months in advance with scouts traveling far and wide to find the perfect tree. The criteria include height, shape, and aesthetic appeal.
- Transportation: Once selected, the tree’s journey is an event in itself, often involving cranes and flatbed trucks to move the immense specimen through the city.
- Preparation: Before lighting, the tree undergoes a transformation. All dead branches are trimmed, and the tree is specially mounted to withstand both the weight of decorations and New York’s weather conditions.
🌿 Note: To date, the tallest tree was 100 feet in 1999, but height isn’t the only factor; the tree’s form and health are paramount for the decorators.
3. The Grand Decoration Team
The decoration crew, assembled by Rockefeller Center, consists of various specialists:
| Role | Description |
|---|---|
| Lighting Specialists | Ensure every bulb is in working order, and plan the light display. |
| Climbers | Experienced arborists who are unafraid of heights, tasked with hanging the upper decorations. |
| Engineers | Handle the technical aspects like stabilizing the tree and securing the lights and ornaments. |
| Craftspeople | Create custom ornaments, bows, and other festive decorations. |
4. The Star and Its Legacy
The tree’s crowning jewel, the iconic star, is:
- Swarkovski: The current star, introduced in 2004, was designed by world-renowned jeweler Swarovski. It is 9.5 feet in diameter, weighs approximately 550 pounds, and is covered with 25,000 crystals.
- History: The tradition of crowning the tree with a star dates back to the 1950s when it was first erected to honor soldiers returning from WWII. Since then, various stars have graced the tree, with the current one being the fifth iteration.
✨ Note: The star’s design is inspired by the Bethlehem Star, symbolizing hope and guidance.
5. Environmental Considerations and Afterglow
Once the season concludes:
- Recycling: The tree is taken down, and its wood is repurposed. Often, the tree is milled into lumber, which is used to build homes for Habitat for Humanity.
- Preservation Efforts: Decorators and organizers have increasingly focused on sustainable practices, such as using LED lights and more durable ornaments to minimize waste.
Furthermore, the tree itself is part of a cycle where its life doesn’t end; rather, it continues in various forms, promoting the idea of environmental stewardship.
🌳 Note: Since 2007, the tree has been donated to be made into lumber for home-building, a testament to sustainable tradition.
The remarkable individuals who transform the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree each year are not just decorators but custodians of a living legacy. They bring joy, warmth, and a sense of community to millions. Their work goes beyond mere decoration; it's a celebration of New York's resilience, creativity, and commitment to tradition.
How long does it take to decorate the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
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The decoration process, depending on the tree’s size and weather conditions, can take anywhere from several days to over a week.
Do they use real or artificial decorations?
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The tree is decorated with a mix of real and artificial ornaments. Real garlands and some traditional decorations are used, but durable, weather-resistant artificial items like lights and specific ornaments are also incorporated for longevity and environmental considerations.
What happens to the lights and decorations after the tree is taken down?
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Most of the lights and durable decorations are stored for reuse in subsequent years, promoting sustainability. The rest are either recycled or donated.
