Move over, spooky Halloween decorations! It is time we embody the bright Christmas lights, as the 2023 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been revealed. This time, the iconic tree is coming from Vestal, New York. The tree, sandwiched between two residences near Binghamton University’s Vestal campus, is about 80-85 years old, 80 feet tall, 43 feet in diameter, and weighs about 12 tons. The Tree will arrive on Center Plaza on Saturday, November 11, after being cut down from Vestal on Thursday, November 9.
Credit: People
Furthermore, its arrival will accompany a ceremony with book readings, letters to Santa, ornament making and much more! This event is free to the public, but those who RSVP in advance will receive a free treat at check-in. Click here for more details.
It should be known that every year, the tree – which is always a Northway Spruce, (species native to Northern, Central, and Eastern Europe), is picked out by the Rockefeller Center’s head gardener, Erik Pauze. These trees are known for their size and sturdiness. Last year, the tree hailed from Queensbury, New York, 200 miles from Manhattan. It measured 82 feet tall and 50 feet wide, weighing 14 tons.
Credit: NPR
My dear New Yorkers and every fan of this famous cultural landmark, this year’s tree lighting will take place on Wednesday, November 29. As usual, it will boast approximately 50,000 multicolored energy-efficient LEDs, covering about five miles of wire. Plus, of course, the seventy-spiked, 9-foot, 900-pound Swarovski star covered in three million crystals will be on top. Last but not least, this year’s tree will remain on display at the Rockefeller Center until January 13, 2024. I hope everyone creates new memories with their loved ones while it lasts!