When will the Rockefeller Christmas tree actually be lit? What to know about timings of tonight's event
Thousands gathered for NYC’s 93rd Rockefeller tree lighting. The show begins at 7 p.m. ET with performances, and the tree is set to be lit at 10 p.m. ET.
On Wednesday, December 3, thousands have gathered at New York City for the 93rd annual lighting ceremony of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. The event is several hours long, comprising of several performances, before the tree is actually lit.
Rockefeller Center Christmas tree ahead of the 93rd annual lighting ceremony, Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025, in New York. (AP)
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According to the official schedule of the program today at the Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan, the show starts at 7 p.m. ET with a host of performances planned for the next three hours before the actual tree lighting. The schedule states the actual tree lighting will take place at 10 p.m. ET.
Who's Performing At The Event? Key Details
The event is being hosted by Reba McEntire, who also performed at the event. Other singing performances include, Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, Kristin Chenoweth, Laufey, New Edition, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, and Gwen Stefani - a stellar line-up, to say the least.
At the end, there is a dance performance by Radio City Rockettes. Notably, the dance group is celebrating their 100th anniversary this year.
Shamik is a journalist covering the United States for Hindustan Times. He has more than four years of experience reporting on US politics, sports, and major breaking stories across fast-moving cycles. He previously worked at Times Now and Sportskeeda, building strong newsroom instincts and digital storytelling skills. At HT.com, he focuses on day-to-day coverage of US political developments while also handling high-impact stories that demand speed, accuracy, clarity, and context under pressure. Shamik has extensive experience covering NFL game days over the past two years, coordinating live updates, analysis, and explainers. He is particularly drawn to large news moments such as US elections and the Super Bowl, where he thrives at the news desk working alongside the team. He holds degrees in Media Studies from Jamia Millia Islamia and English Literature from Jadavpur University. Before entering journalism, he briefly worked in digital marketing and political consultancy roles. Currently a Senior Content Producer at HT Digital, he is driven by curiosity, discipline, and a constant desire to explore new and obscure topics. Outside work, he enjoys reading, films, sports, and learning continuously.
Stay updated with US News covering politics, crime, weather, local events, and sports highlights. Get the latest on Donald Trump and American politics along with Horoscope 2026.
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