For the first time since 1959, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree hails from Massachusetts. The 74-foot-tall Norway Spruce hails from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, right at the New York and Massachusetts state line.
The tree holds sentimental value to the Albert family who planted it nearly 60 years ago. In 1967, Leslie and Earl Albert planted the tree in West Stockbridge, Massachusetts as newlyweds! Leslie adored the holiday season according to a recent interview with Earl Albert. Just days after her passing, Earl Albert was notified by Rockefeller Center Chief Gardener, Erik Pauze, that they were interested in the Alberts’ Norway Spruce. Earl, saw this as a sign and way to honor Leslie.
Rockefeller Center tree arrival
This is the first time in 65 years for the New York City holiday tree to come from Massachusetts. The tree-cutting took place on Thursday, November 7 and the tree arrives at Rockefeller Center on Saturday, November 9. The massive spruce is adorned in 50,000 LED lights each year, and topped with a glimmering Swarovski crystal star! The arrival ceremony will be held in NYC’s Rockefeller Center Plaza from 10 AM- 1PM on Saturday, November 9.
Rockefeller Christmas Tree lighting
The official NYC tree lighting takes place on Wednesday, December 4, so book your Amtrak tickets now if you want to take advantage of the Super Savers deal. The tree will be on display through mid-January 2025 and the wood donated to Habitat for Humanity to build homes after it is taken down. Our own tree lighting takes place the next day, on Thursday, December 5!
In New England tradition, the 83rd annual tree lighting features a stunning Nova Scotia spruce to be adorned in thousands of lights. The Boston Common Tree generally stands 50-feet-tall!
While we’re thinking of all the fun holiday festivities ahead like Snowport, which opens in about 10 days, we’re still not even done with the Halloween fun! Check out some of our favorite things to do this week in Boston!