The annual Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony is a beloved holiday tradition that marks the official start of the festive season in New York City. For 2024, millions of viewers across the nation are eager to find out when the iconic event will take place, and also where they can watch and stream the dazzling celebration live. In this article, USA Today provides all the essential details on the date, time, and viewing options for the 2024 Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting ceremony, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of the holiday magic.
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Date and Time for 2024
The highly anticipated lighting of the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is set for Wednesday, December 4, 2024. The event will officially commence at 7:00 PM EST, marking the start of the holiday season in New York City. As always, the ceremony will feature live music performances from top artists, celebrity appearances, and plenty of festive cheer. Visitors and viewers alike can expect a warm, enchanting atmosphere as the towering tree, adorned with thousands of Swarovski crystals and twinkling lights, takes center stage against the backdrop of the city’s winter skyline.
- Date: December 4, 2024
- Time: 7:00 PM EST
- Location: Rockefeller Center, New York City
- Broadcast: NBC Network and official Rockefeller Center channels
For viewers unable to attend in person, the ceremony will be live-streamed on multiple platforms, providing accessible coverage worldwide. NBC will broadcast the event live on television, while online audiences can tune in via the NBC website or the Rockefeller Center’s official social media channels, including YouTube and Facebook. Whether watching from the comfort of home or joining the crowd at Rockefeller Plaza, this event remains a timeless celebration of the holiday spirit, combining tradition with the magic of New York City.
| Viewing Options | Platform |
|---|---|
| Live TV Broadcast | NBC Network |
| Official Live Stream | Rockefeller Center Website |
| Social Media Streams | YouTube, Facebook |
Key Performers and Event Highlights for the Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony
This year’s tree lighting ceremony promises a star-studded lineup, with performances by critically acclaimed artists and beloved holiday icons. Grammy-winning sensation Ariana Grande is set to deliver a dazzling rendition of classic Christmas hits, while Michael Bublé returns to warm hearts with his signature smooth jazz tunes. Fans can also look forward to a special appearance by the energetic K-Pop group BTS, whose festive performance is sure to electrify the crowd. Additionally, Broadway stars from the hit musical “Holiday Spirit” will enchant viewers with familiar holiday melodies and spirited dance numbers, making the evening unforgettable.
Beyond the performances, the evening includes several memorable moments that add to the festive charm. Alongside the official countdown, iconic celebrities will share heartwarming stories of holiday traditions and giving. The event features:
- A surprise guest appearance: shrouded in mystery to keep excitement high.
- Interactive fan experiences: exclusive social media contests and live shoutouts.
- A spectacular fireworks display: lighting up the New York skyline right after the tree is illuminated.
These highlights create a vibrant, communal spirit, making the ceremony much more than just a light switch, but a celebration of unity and joy in the heart of Manhattan.
Where to Watch the Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting Live on TV
The iconic Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony will be broadcast live on several major networks, allowing millions across the country to experience the magic from home.NBC traditionally holds exclusive live coverage, starting at 8 p.m. ET,featuring performances by top musical guests and holiday-themed segments. For viewers without cable, it’s also available streaming on the NBC app and Peacock, offering seamless access via smart devices, computers, or mobile phones.
In addition to NBC’s live primetime telecast, several local NYC stations provide supplemental coverage and behind-the-scenes glimpses. Fans can tune in to:
- NBC – Live main event broadcast,8 p.m. ET
- Peacock streaming – Accessible online and via app
- NYC local news channels – Features and interviews pre- and post-ceremony
These options ensure that holiday spirit reaches audiences nationwide, with easy-to-access platforms bringing the festive tradition directly to viewers’ living rooms.
Best Online Streaming Options for the 2024 Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting
The 2024 Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony will once again be a dazzling spectacle, and for those who cannot attend in person, several streaming services offer live coverage. Fans can tune in through the official NBC network live stream, accessible via NBC’s website or its dedicated app, ensuring a seamless viewing experience. In addition to NBC, popular platforms like Peacock and the Yahoo Sports app will also carry the event, providing multiple options to watch the festivities live.
For viewers seeking adaptability and convenience, here are some reliable online streaming options:
- NBC Live Stream: Available on NBC.com and smart TV apps.
- Peacock: Stream on-demand with a free tier or premium plans.
- Yahoo Sports App: Free streaming on mobile devices.
- FuboTV and Hulu + Live TV: Subscription-based services offering live NBC coverage along with additional content.
| Platform | Accessibility | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| NBC Live Stream | Web & Apps | Free with cable subscription |
| Peacock | Web, Apps, Smart TVs | Free & Premium Options |
| Yahoo Sports App | Mobile Devices | Free |
| FuboTV | Web, Apps | Subscription |
| Hulu + Live TV | Web, Apps | Subscription |
Insights and Conclusions
As the holiday season approaches, the 2024 Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting ceremony promises to bring festive cheer to New York City and viewers nationwide. Whether attending in person or watching from home, fans can look forward to a dazzling event filled with music, celebration, and tradition. For the latest updates on the date, streaming options, and viewing details, stay tuned to USA Today’s coverage to ensure you don’t miss this iconic moment marking the start of the Christmas season.
