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Watch the iconic Rockefeller Christmas tree light up in New York City

Dec. 4, 2025, 11:27 a.m. ET

This dazzling tree is hard to miss.

A video shows the 75-foot-tall Norway Spruce lighting up at Rockefeller Center in New York City on Wednesday, Dec. 3, kicking off the holiday season.

Thousands of people gathered to watch the magical moment, with some visitors from out of town.

"This is my first time in New York, and it really means a lot to me, and I love it," Rudy Tonner of Scotland told CBS New York.

The famous tree is notably decorated with 50,000 multicolored lights and a 900-pound Swarovski star. It was brought to the city from upstate New York in November for the annual event that dates back to 1931.

Tree lighting included star-studded performances

The Christmas tree stands illuminated moments after being lit during the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting in New York City on December 3, 2025.

The tree lighting ceremony, which aired live on NBC and Peacock, was hosted by Reba McEntire. The musical artist and actress also performed, singing the classic "Let There Be Peace on Earth" and hyping the crowd with "Run Rudolph Run."

Other acts present included Gwen Stefani, who performed "Shake the Snow Globe," "Hot Cocoa" and "You Make It Feel Like Christmas."

Halle Bailey, Marc Anthony, Michael Bublé, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, Laufey and New Edition also made appearances, and the Radio City Rockettes hit the stage for their 100th anniversary.

Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at [email protected].

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