Every year, as winter begins to wrap its frosty fingers around the heart of New York City, the iconic Rockefeller Center transforms into a glittering beacon of holiday spirit. At its heart stands the Christmas Tree, an event that captivates locals and tourists alike. While most are familiar with the spectacle, few are aware of the meticulous secrets behind its decoration that make it not just a festive centerpiece but a masterpiece of holiday cheer. Here are five secrets of the Rockefeller Center's Christmas tree decoration that breathe life into this towering tradition.
The Choice of Tree
The selection of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is an art form in itself. The tree must be:
- A Norway Spruce or a similar type, standing between 75 to 100 feet tall.
- Perfectly shaped with a full and bushy lower section.
- Free from any noticeable damages or scars that would be visible when lit.
- Capable of withstanding New York City’s harsh winter conditions.
The search for the perfect tree begins months in advance, with scouts from Rockefeller Center combing through thousands of trees across the Northeast region to find the one that will stand proud in Manhattan’s bustling hub.
Lights, Camera, Action
The process of lighting up the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is both a technical feat and a visual marvel:
- The tree is adorned with over 50,000 multicolored, energy-efficient LED lights, ensuring a vibrant and eco-friendly display.
- These lights are strung by hand, in a painstaking process that can take days.
- A custom-fit light strand is designed to ensure uniform illumination, emphasizing the tree’s natural shape.
The Star Topper
The star that sits atop the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is no ordinary holiday decor:
- Weighing in at 550 pounds, this Swarovski crystal star was introduced in 2004.
- It features more than 25,000 crystals and is made from 1,176 LED lights.
- Placing this massive star atop the tree is a spectacle in itself, requiring a special crane and immense skill.
The Tree Stand
Supporting such a massive tree isn’t easy, and the Rockefeller Center uses a special technique:
- A reinforced steel stand is placed underneath the tree, capable of holding its massive weight and keeping it steady.
- This stand is not just functional but also maintains the aesthetic of the tree, ensuring the trunk looks natural while offering stability.
Ornamentation
While the lights provide the tree with its glow, the ornaments add to its charm:
- Ornaments are often oversized to ensure they are visible from the ground level.
- Each year, the design of the ornaments might change, but they’re always crafted to reflect the year’s holiday theme.
- These decorations are strategically placed to enhance the tree’s visual appeal from multiple vantage points around the plaza.
🔎 Note: The tradition began in the early 1930s, with the first tree erected by construction workers at the site where the Rockefeller Center was being built.
As the festive season ends, the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center serves more than just as a landmark. It embodies tradition, craftsmanship, and the spirit of holiday cheer. These secrets not only enhance its visual impact but also elevate the experience for everyone who visits, making it a pivotal part of holiday festivities in New York City.
How is the Rockefeller Christmas Tree chosen?
+
The search for the perfect tree starts months in advance, with scouts looking for a Norway Spruce or similar, between 75-100 feet tall, in the Northeast region.
What type of lights are used on the tree?
+
The tree is adorned with over 50,000 energy-efficient LED lights that are custom-fit to the tree’s shape.
What is unique about the star on top of the tree?
+
The star is a 550-pound Swarovski crystal star introduced in 2004, made with over 25,000 crystals and 1,176 LED lights.
How is the tree supported?
+
The tree uses a reinforced steel stand underneath to provide stability while maintaining its natural look.
Are the ornaments on the tree special?
+
The ornaments are oversized to be visible from the ground, often themed each year to enhance the tree’s visual appeal.
