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!
Beautiful NYC and what a gorgeous huge tree. Love your header also! Happy Christmas!
ReplyDeleteKate 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!
ReplyDeleteIt's a scene that many of us know from TV - I'd love to see the real thing!
ReplyDeleteMy 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.
ReplyDeleteDon 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!
ReplyDeleteWow, makes me want to go visit my niece, she moved to NY this past summer!
ReplyDeleteWonderful photos of the Rockefeller Center tree and the lovley decorations. Now, I would like to go and see them myself.
ReplyDeleteNo! I don't have it all done...
ReplyDeleteWhat 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
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!
ReplyDeleteWe 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.
ReplyDeleteWould 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 :-)
ReplyDeletePat, 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!
ReplyDeleteThanks Pam!
ReplyDeleteThanks 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!
Hi Pat,
ReplyDeleteI 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
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
ReplyDeleteThe 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.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas, Pat!
Beautiful, Pat! I feel like I've been to NYC for Christmas. Thank you for this gift!
ReplyDeleteHappy Christmas to you. ~ Sarah
Love this post, Pat! The tree is always so breathtaking! Rock Center is awesome! and definitely, Kate Smith is a classic, for sure!
ReplyDeleteThere 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.
ReplyDeleteJocelyn
http://justalittlesouthernhospitality.blogspot.com
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!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous 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!
ReplyDeleteSuch a gorgeous tree. I also love your header!
ReplyDeleteThrilling! Thank you so much for sharing these sights and the history behind them. Totally wonderful!
ReplyDeleteI think those pictures of New York are some of my favorite images of the city. Hopefully, I will see it in person some day!
ReplyDeleteThanks,
JoAnn
Gorgeous. I loved seeing both of those places you mention! Such an electric city!
ReplyDeletei want to have the NYC Christmas!! love those Christmas lights! great shots!
ReplyDeleteI am SOOOO LOVING this! New York City is truly fabulous! A big Christmas hug to you, Pat!
ReplyDeleteAnother 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.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy the coming season and may you be blessed.
Beautiful tree. I love the way you have framed it with the horns of the angels! The ice skating looks great fun too!
ReplyDeleteSince 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.
ReplyDeleteThe 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.....
ReplyDeleteYour photos really put me in the Christmas spirit.
Sam
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.
ReplyDeleteYou make me want to visit NY so badly again!
Merry Christmas to you & yours, Pat!
fondly,
Rett
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))
ReplyDeleteHi 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.
ReplyDeleteIf 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.
ReplyDeleteOn my way back home.
ReplyDeleteBuon Natale!
Love the tree and the area, but the crowds are something to deal with. It is such a festive area!
ReplyDelete♥, Susan
Love it! Will be there on Christmas Eve! I have so many similar photos... Each year it is still enchanting!
ReplyDeleteHappy Holidays!
Cat
Love the colours on the Rockefeller Tree, but those angels were really something very special -like ice sculpture.
ReplyDeleteThat was one gorgeous post. Brings back so many memories. I hope you and yours have a very Merry Christmas.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas, Pat, to you and your family!
ReplyDeleteI loved seeing the photos of Christmas in NY...and the videos too!
Happy Holidays!
Hugs,
Donna
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!!
ReplyDeleteThanks 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.
ReplyDeleteHope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!
I'm still wrapping!!!
Love it! Thanks for including the sounds! have a good Christmas!
ReplyDeleteOh 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!!
ReplyDeleteAnd 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
I think Christmas might just be the perfect time to visit New York. How beautiful!
ReplyDeleteHave a blessed Christmas, Pat!
I love these pictures....
ReplyDeleteThey 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.....
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! :)
ReplyDeleteOh Pat ..your pictures are spectacular. . .absolutely gorgoues.
ReplyDeleteMy 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!
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
ReplyDeleteYour photos make me want to go and see the tree in person.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the wonderful information on the Rock tree. Your pictures and video are wonderful. Have a peaceful and joyous Christmas.
ReplyDeleteLooks great, Pat. Son usually takes the kids skating there during Cmas week.
ReplyDeleteI 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! :)
Merry Christmas and Happy 2011!
ReplyDeleteI am the bride, says the middle tree, you are my bridesmaid.
ReplyDeleteI went to this place in June.
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...
ReplyDeleteHey Pat
ReplyDeleteDid 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-
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.
ReplyDeleteAnd 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.
Thank you very much for sharing your wonderful compositions on his blog. Wish you Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Best wishes. Leovi.
ReplyDeleteSuch 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!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmasssssssssss !!!!
ReplyDeleteWow. Now THAT'S a tree!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas to you...
=)
Wonderful! I have a dream to visit that place someday. Have a Merry Christmas.
ReplyDeleteThanks 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,
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful Christmas!
Riet
Merry Christmas Pat!!
ReplyDeleteWaiting for you in Egypt... ;)
Hope you well, season's greetings!
ReplyDeleteAwards 4 U, Merry Christmas, Thanks 4 Being My Friend!
and
Awards 4 U, Stay Blessed
Merry Christmas Pat! & Thanks for sharing this since I didn't get to visit here this year.
ReplyDeleteI look forward to next weeks light show video & pictures too.
Ciao Pat, I wish you and your family, a great Christmas and a Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteOne 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.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas to you and your family!
Merry Christmas! :)
ReplyDeleteLovely pictures, almost overwhelming.
ReplyDeleteI 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.
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.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! One day I will, indeed, skate there!
ReplyDeleteMerry, merry Christmas to you and your family, Pat! Best wishes for a wonderful holiday filled with many blessings!
Wow, the last time i was in NYC i saw rockerfeller tree lighting. 2008 or 2007 i think? anywho nice blog~
ReplyDeleteOh, 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!
ReplyDeleteI'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 :-)
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!
ReplyDeleteHappy holidays and best wishes for a full year of peace and happiness
ReplyDeleteI loved being able to see the Rock tree in person. Thanks for letting me revisit through your post.
ReplyDeleteHappyNewYear! 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.
ReplyDeleteyvonne
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.
ReplyDeletePat, this was amazing. I love that gorgeous tree.
ReplyDeleteI'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.
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.
ReplyDeleteBlessings, Beth