Tuesday, December 21, 2010

The 2010 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree!


The Rockefeller CenterChristmas Tree, located at Rockefeller Plaza, between West 48th and West 51st Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues, Manhattan is a worldwide symbol of the holidays in New York City.


The tradition for a tree at this site began in 1931 when workmen put up a Christmas tree on a muddy Rockefeller Center construction site. The first formal Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony was held in 1933, and the first national televised ceremony was in 1951 on the Kate Smith Show.


The tree, traditionally a Norway Spruce, is illuminated by 30,000 environmentally-friendly LED lights on five miles of wire, and crowned by a Swarovski crystal star. The Swarovski star was first placed on top of the tree in 2004 and is the largest star to ever grace the tree.  It measures 9 1/2 feet in diameter and 1 1/2 feet deep and is adorned with 25,000 crystals and one million facets.

 
This year's tree is a 74 tall Norway spruce donated by Peter and Stephanie Acton from their backyard in Mahopac, in Putnam County, New York.  Mr. Acton is a New York City firefighter. The tallest Rockefeller Center tree was 100 feet tall, in 1999.


For me, it isn't Christmas until I've seen the Rock tree and visited Saint Patrick's Cathedral which is located nearby across the street, on 5th Ave.  On weekends the area is extremely crowded with visitors, so if you plan to visit NYC during the Christmas season, try to save your visit to the tree for a weekday evening.


Some daytime views of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. The tree may be viewed 24 hours a day, but is the most glorious when lit. The ice skating rink is open from morning till night, but expect a line, as only 150 skaters can skate at one time.  It's an incredible experience!


I thought you'd enjoy seeing a video of the sights and sounds around the tree!


Another video of the occasional blinking lights.


Directly opposite the Rockefeller Center is the Saks Fifth Avenue Department store. Every year their windows are decorated for Christmas, and they have a wonderful light and sound show projected on the outside of their building. I took movies of the show and I'll show photos and the movie next week, and also Macy's and Lord &Taylor's wonderful holiday windows!

As Christmas quickly approaches I hope you have your shopping, decorating, wrapping, baking, etc completed. I've been busy doing all this past week, enjoying every minute.  It really is the most wonderful time of the year!

Merry Christmas to all!



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82 comments:

Olive said...

Beautiful NYC and what a gorgeous huge tree. Love your header also! Happy Christmas!

pam said...

Kate Smith....haven't heard that name for a long time. 5 miles of wiring...GLORY. I wonder how many people it takes and how long to decorate that huge tree. It is so beautiful. Last year we watched a show on TV about all the big department stores and the process of decorating the windows....so fun. You live in a magical place Pat!

Pondside said...

It's a scene that many of us know from TV - I'd love to see the real thing!

Claudia said...

My cousins and I skated under that tree every Christmas for decades. Even when in college - we would still come home and have one skate! It's always ajoy to behold. Lovely and interesting posting about NYC's most impressive tree.

Anonymous said...

Don and I missed Christmas in NYC but we did get to see the skaters...of course not nearly as many. Your videos were great...and the tree pictures fantastic...felt like I was right down in the middle of things again! I'm so glad you do this and that it's a city Don and I visited, brings back sweet memories!

Sandy said...

Wow, makes me want to go visit my niece, she moved to NY this past summer!

eileeninmd said...

Wonderful photos of the Rockefeller Center tree and the lovley decorations. Now, I would like to go and see them myself.

Vee said...

No! I don't have it all done...

What a beautiful tree and on it those LED lights look just fine. What a lot of hubbub around the tree...just as one would expect in NYC.

Glad that you've been making good progress on your Christmas. :D

Snap said...

Pat, wonderful, wonderful, wonderful! I haven't been there at Christmas, but when I did see Rockefeller Plaza, I was struck by how small it is! It looks so huge on TV!!! :D :D Okay, Pat ... looking forward to where you will take us next!

Arlene Delloro said...

We saw the tree in daylight, but it looks even better from your angle. I never tire of seeing the Christmas show at Radio City and visiting all the sites you've mentioned. When I grow up, I want to take photos as good as yours. I loved Kate Smith; remember her show when I was a little girl.

Mary said...

Would love to see this in person! It's hard to imagine the star is that size! Thanks so much for sharing such an Iconic Christmas image with your amazing detail! Merry Christmas to your & your family :-)

Sheila said...

Pat, your first photo is my favorite - the perspective shown is wonderful. The Christmas spirit is certainly alive in New York City. I'll look forward to seeing the windows after Christmas. Have a wonderful Christmas!

Pat @ Mille Fiori Favoriti said...

Thanks Pam!



Thanks everyone!

Pam-- Kate Smith is still pretty well known in NYC as the Yankee baseball team has played her rendition of "God Bless America" every game since 9/11 during the 7th inning break. She is a classic!

Unknown said...

Hi Pat,
I hope to get to travel to NYC for Christmas one day!

The tree is beautiful, and you did a wonderful job capturing it with your photos.

I just bought a new computer, and after downloading Picasa, I ran across your picture when we visited!

Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas!
Diane

Unknown said...

The tree is amazing...something I often see on movies only, it would be so cool to be there. Love those angels. In case I am not around, here's wishing you a Merry Christmas and a happy holidays with the family. Love and hugs;/M

SavoringTime in the Kitchen said...

The tree is just gorgeous this year! What an awesome sight it must be in person. I'm always in awe the tree and ice skating rink there.

Merry Christmas, Pat!

Sarah said...

Beautiful, Pat! I feel like I've been to NYC for Christmas. Thank you for this gift!
Happy Christmas to you. ~ Sarah

Carol said...

Love this post, Pat! The tree is always so breathtaking! Rock Center is awesome! and definitely, Kate Smith is a classic, for sure!

Jocelyn said...

There is nothing like Christmas in NYC. I remember how beautiful the window displays would be every year. I'd love to see them all again. Thanks for sharing a little bit of Christmas in NY.

Jocelyn
http://justalittlesouthernhospitality.blogspot.com

Ginny Hartzler said...

Wow! The tree is just a knockout!! But the star doesn't look nine feet across, I never would have guessed. I love the rows of angels with trumpets. The snowflakes on the building, is that lights or what? How is it done? Can't wait to see the rest!

GailO said...

Gorgeous shots Pat! The one time I made it to see the Rockefeller Center tree I found that it was VERY difficult to take a shot because there were so many people there! It was fun though! Can't wait to see the shots of the windows!

Michelle said...

Such a gorgeous tree. I also love your header!

~Cheryl said...

Thrilling! Thank you so much for sharing these sights and the history behind them. Totally wonderful!

The Gathering Place said...

I think those pictures of New York are some of my favorite images of the city. Hopefully, I will see it in person some day!
Thanks,
JoAnn

Kris said...

Gorgeous. I loved seeing both of those places you mention! Such an electric city!

Marites said...

i want to have the NYC Christmas!! love those Christmas lights! great shots!

ColoradoBlondi said...

I am SOOOO LOVING this! New York City is truly fabulous! A big Christmas hug to you, Pat!

Marg said...

Another reminder of my walk through New York. I loved staring at that tree. And I actually stepped into that Sak 5th Store...I was only allowed to Look...not even touch, as it was all so secured.
Enjoy the coming season and may you be blessed.

H said...

Beautiful tree. I love the way you have framed it with the horns of the angels! The ice skating looks great fun too!

Gracie said...

Since he moved in NY my cousin never lost a lightning of the tree and he says it's a spectacular view and very moving.....I whish I'd be there one day, me too! Thanks for bringing the emotions to me through your photos Pat.

Sam Hoffer / My Carolina Kitchen said...

The Rockefeller Christmas tree should be our national Christmas tree it's so beautiful. Thanks for taking us along to Fifth Avenue with you today Pat. Now if only I could stop in Saks and do a little shopping.....

Your photos really put me in the Christmas spirit.
Sam

Rettabug said...

What a joy to behold!! Thank you so much for sharing your photos. I've been inside of St. Patrick's cathedral but it was a looooong time ago...like 25+ years.
You make me want to visit NY so badly again!

Merry Christmas to you & yours, Pat!
fondly,
Rett

Tracy said...

Simply STUNNING! NY lit up at night for Christmas... what magic! Thank you for taking along to so many special happenings, events and moments in your life this past year, Pat. We have a good many gatherings & get-togethers in the next days, so visiting friends early this week in blogland. I hope to post again before the holiday break :o) Hoping you & yours have the happiest holiday season & wishing you all the best in 2011, my friend! ((HUGS))

Linda Lou said...

Hi Pat, I used to work at 46th and Madison and loved to walk to Rockefeller Center at Christmastime to enjoy the beautiful tree and all of the holiday spirit! I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas.

RoeH said...

If I ever get rich, I'm coming to NY for Christmas some year. Totally beautiful. I always think the Rockefeller tree is lots prettier than the National tree in DC. Maybe it's all that NY flavor around it.

Mister Meatball said...

On my way back home.

Buon Natale!

black eyed susans kitchen said...

Love the tree and the area, but the crowds are something to deal with. It is such a festive area!
♥, Susan

Gypsea Nurse said...

Love it! Will be there on Christmas Eve! I have so many similar photos... Each year it is still enchanting!
Happy Holidays!
Cat

Anonymous said...

Love the colours on the Rockefeller Tree, but those angels were really something very special -like ice sculpture.

Donnie said...

That was one gorgeous post. Brings back so many memories. I hope you and yours have a very Merry Christmas.

Donna said...

Merry Christmas, Pat, to you and your family!

I loved seeing the photos of Christmas in NY...and the videos too!

Happy Holidays!
Hugs,
Donna

Linda said...

What a wonderful place to visit during Christmas time...thanks for taking us there! As usual...your photos and descriptions are perfect! Thanks! Merry Christmas!!

Yvette said...

Thanks SO much for these photos, Pat. When my daughter was about 12 we used to take her and her best friend to skate here. Fabulous memories.

Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!

I'm still wrapping!!!

podso said...

Love it! Thanks for including the sounds! have a good Christmas!

Old Kitty said...

Oh wow!! I love it the second clip where the tree just sparkles with light!! It's beautiful!!!! And I love that the tree was donated by a firefighter - that's just so nice - it makes it a truly community tree!!

And the ice rink underneath is fab - 150 people?!?! That's quite big!!! The Saks Fifth Avenue store just complements the whole thing - I feel very chrismassy already!! Thanks for sharing these beautiful pics and fun clips! Take care
x

Judy said...

I think Christmas might just be the perfect time to visit New York. How beautiful!

Have a blessed Christmas, Pat!

nanny said...

I love these pictures....
They showed the Saks show on Regis and Kelly this morning...I wondered if you were watching. They showed many places that you have shared with us.....

Lacey R said...

I absolutely LOVE the Rockefeller Christmas tree and the surrounding angels. So beautiful!! My husband and I were lucky enough to see the Rockefeller Christmas tree in January 2008, just days before before it was taken down. Next time we are definitely going to the skating rink! :)

Lovella ♥ said...

Oh Pat ..your pictures are spectacular. . .absolutely gorgoues.
My wrapping is done. ..the baking is finished .. and I'm all excited.

One day ..I'll bring a group of girls with me ..we'll do New York!

Linda (More Fun Less Laundry) said...

Hi Pat, I always look forward to seeing the tree, the angels, and the snowflakes on Saks too! Tomorrow we are headed in, and it looks like good weather! Have a wonderful and joyous Christmas. Linda

Unknown said...

Your photos make me want to go and see the tree in person.

Judie said...

Thanks for the wonderful information on the Rock tree. Your pictures and video are wonderful. Have a peaceful and joyous Christmas.

Kathleen said...

Looks great, Pat. Son usually takes the kids skating there during Cmas week.
I like watching it from the comfort and warmth of my den! :) And then I always have you to get in the crowds and take pics! I think it looks the same every year, don't you?? :)
Merry Christmas! Let's make a resolution to meet come Spring when I come out of my cocoon! :)

fredamans said...

Merry Christmas and Happy 2011!

Ann, Chen Jie Xue 陈洁雪 said...

I am the bride, says the middle tree, you are my bridesmaid.

I went to this place in June.

Jo said...

oh this is s blessing to be able to see your photos of the tree ... i would love to be there at christmas just to see that tree...

Tara said...

Hey Pat

Did you know you can rent the ice for 75$ for 15 minutes (everyone clears off) to ask someone to marry you? Evryone starts clapping once the gal says yes! SWeet!
Great pics here-

People Who Know Me Would Say: said...

When I grew up in NYS, every year right around the 1st of December, there would be television coverage of the lighting of that tree....a famous person or two singing, etc. I always watched. Always.

And I saw the tree itself more times than I can count. You make me miss NY, but at the same time you share it with me. Thank you so much for doing it!

Merry Christmas to you and yours, Pat. God bless you, your siblings and your mom.

Leovi said...

Thank you very much for sharing your wonderful compositions on his blog. Wish you Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Best wishes. Leovi.

Francisca said...

Such familiar sights... but I've never been in Manhattan at Christmas time! This was a delightful tour. All the best of the season to you and yours!

dede leoncedis said...

Merry Christmasssssssssss !!!!

Susan Anderson said...

Wow. Now THAT'S a tree!

Merry Christmas to you...

=)

Elisa Day said...

Wonderful! I have a dream to visit that place someday. Have a Merry Christmas.

My name is Riet said...

Thanks for the memory Pat. I was there 13 years ago and I saw the famous Christmas tree and the skating. Nothing in the world like that,
Have a wonderful Christmas!
Riet

Trotter said...

Merry Christmas Pat!!
Waiting for you in Egypt... ;)

Linda Bob Grifins Korbetis Hall said...

Hope you well, season's greetings!

Awards 4 U, Merry Christmas, Thanks 4 Being My Friend!

and


Awards 4 U, Stay Blessed

dianasfaria.com said...

Merry Christmas Pat! & Thanks for sharing this since I didn't get to visit here this year.
I look forward to next weeks light show video & pictures too.

Sciarada said...

Ciao Pat, I wish you and your family, a great Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Just a little something from Judy said...

One of my Christmas gifts this year is the privilege of visiting this blog. It is like my own travel channel with outstanding photography and interesting commentary to go with it. Thank you so much for having a blog, for posting, and for adding an interesting aspect to blogland. I really enjoyed the last few posts on Christmas, trees, and the beautiful city of NY.

Merry Christmas to you and your family!

Sniff said...

Merry Christmas! :)

Anonymous said...

Lovely pictures, almost overwhelming.
I really don't like City life but love my quiet visits to our parks and lakes.
Dear Pat.
May the Christmas season
fill your home with joy,
your heart with love
and your life with laughter.
Wishing you peace,
prosperity and health for 2011.
Gisela.

steviewren said...

Merry Christmas to you and all the ones you love, Pat! May this Christmas season be filled with love, happiness and a multitude of blessings for you.

Lisa@GrandmasBriefs said...

Beautiful! One day I will, indeed, skate there!

Merry, merry Christmas to you and your family, Pat! Best wishes for a wonderful holiday filled with many blessings!

Drea Mar said...

Wow, the last time i was in NYC i saw rockerfeller tree lighting. 2008 or 2007 i think? anywho nice blog~

The Quintessential Magpie said...

Oh, Pat! What a treat it is to see this amazing tree and the ice skating at Rockefeller Center! Fred enjoyed seeing it as well and said one of his favorite memories of NYC was seeing the tree several years ago in person. He said it was snowing at the time and that snowflakes were as big as popcorn!

I'm sorry I've been MIA, but I've been sick among other things. Still, I couldn't let today slip past without wishing you a very Merry Christmas. Hope that you and yours are especially blessed this season and always...

XO,

Sheila :-)

Sandy said...

Pat what a wonderful description and photos of NYC's beautiful Christmas traditions. It's a grand city isn't it! Oh, and I remember hearing Kate Smith as a child she was great. Have a wonderful Christmas!

Elettra said...

Happy holidays and best wishes for a full year of peace and happiness

Cheryl said...

I loved being able to see the Rock tree in person. Thanks for letting me revisit through your post.

La Petite Gallery said...

HappyNewYear! I feel like a kid in a candy shope when I visit your posts. I remember Kate Smith, in fact that English Lady reminds me of her. I have watched my daughter skate at Rockerfeller center while having coffee inside. You really give the feel of NYC to the bloggers that maybe have never been there. Thanks for all your hard work.

yvonne

Blooming Rose Musings said...

It is not Christmas until the Rockefeller Tree is lit. When I was a child we would always visit the tree to start our Christmas season. Your photos are (as always) picture perfect! Thank you so much for sharing this very New York tradition.

Jenny said...

Pat, this was amazing. I love that gorgeous tree.

I'm late visiting these fabulous links for Christmas but I'll be early in wishing you a 2011 filled with joy, blessings and many memory making moments.

Beth said...

Pat, Your photos are stunning! I love the first one and the ones with the ice skaters! I cannot wait to explore the archives of your blog and learn more and more about NYC. Thanks for sharing photos and information about your city, which surely is one of the most fascinating places in the world.
Blessings, Beth