The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree was illuminated Wednesday, marking the official start of the holiday season in New York City. The iconic tradition, dating back to 1933, drew thousands to witness the spectacular display.
The 23-meter-high Norway spruce, adorned with 50,000 multi-coloured lights and topped with a Swarovski star featuring 3 million crystals, was the highlight of the evening.
The spectacular display drew enthusiastic cheers from the large crowd gathered at Rockefeller Plaza.
This year’s tree, weighing around 11 tons, comes from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts.
Its journey to New York began in 2020, when the head gardener at Rockefeller Center spotted it and contacted the owners about donating it for the holiday display. After being cut down last month, the tree was carefully transported to the plaza for the grand lighting ceremony.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, positioned above the famous ice skating rink, will remain on display through mid-January, with a special 24-hour lighting on Christmas Day.
After the holiday season, the tree will be repurposed as lumber for Habitat for Humanity - a non profit organisation helping provide housing for those who need it most.
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