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Five 2025 Tree Lighting Ceremonies in New York

New York’s holiday season shines brightest through its tree lighting ceremonies, blending iconic urban spectacles with charming upstate traditions. Based on popularity, attendance, historical significance, and media buzz, here are five Tree Lightings in New York for 2025. These events draw crowds for their festive atmospheres, performances, and community spirit—though expect chilly weather and large turnouts, so bundle up and arrive early. 

Number 1:

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting (New York City)

The undisputed king of holiday events, this 93rd annual ceremony lights an 75-foot Norway spruce from East Greenbush, NY, adorned with 50,000 LED lights and a Swarovski star. Hosted by Reba McEntire with live NBC broadcasts, musical guests, and ice skating, it’s a global phenomenon drawing millions.

Date & Time: Wednesday, December 3, 7–10 p.m. (lighting ~10 p.m.)

Location: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Midtown Manhattan.

For more information: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/holidays/rockefeller-center-christmas-tree/

Number 2:

Bryant Park Winter Village Tree Lighting (New York City)

A festive kickoff in Midtown’s public park, featuring a towering tree, professional ice skating shows, carolers, and fireworks amid holiday market stalls. It’s family-friendly and less crowded than Rockefeller, with hot cocoa and shopping galore.

Date & Time: Tuesday, December 2, 4–8 p.m. (lighting ~7 p.m.)

Location: Bryant Park, between 40th and 42nd Streets.

For more information: https://bryantpark.org/calendar/event/tree-lighting

Number 3:

New York Stock Exchange Tree Lighting (New York City)

Dating back to 1923, this Wall Street tradition illuminates a 40+ foot tree with live music, hot drinks, and financial district flair. It’s a nod to NYC’s economic heartbeat, complete with carols and company activations.

Date & Time: Tuesday, December 9, 4:30–6:30 p.m. (lighting ~5:30 p.m.)

Location: Intersection of Wall Street and Broad Street, Financial District.

For more information: https://www.nyse.com/event/annual-tree-lighting

Number 4:

“Home for the Holidays” Tree Lighting (Syracuse, Central NY)

The “Home for the Holidays” annual Tree Lighting celebration will take place on Friday, Nov. 28th at 6 p.m. in Clinton Square. The 42-foot-tall tree in the heart of downtown Syracuse will remain the focal point of celebrations, continuing the cherished tradition of lighting the tree the day after Thanksgiving.

Date & Time: Friday, November 28, 2026 at 6pm (Get there earlier)

Location: Clinton Square, Downtown Syracuse.

For more information: https://www.syr.gov/Events/City-Events-and-Ceremonies/2025/Home-for-the-Holidays-Tree-Lighting-in-Clinton-Square

Number 5:

Illuminate Light Parade and Tree Lighting – Finger Lakes, NY

The holiday season begins in Downtown Canandaigua at 6:00pm with the Illuminate Light Parade, featuring Santa’s grand entrance. Watch as the night transforms with twinkling lights and a procession of glowing floats, fire engines, vintage automobiles, and community groups making their way from City Hall. Santa, accompanied by his elves, brings holiday magic to all. Following the parade, gather at Commons Park for the Tree Lighting Ceremony, where carols fill the air and seasonal treats await as Canandaigua bursts into festive brilliance.

Date and Time: November 29, 2025 – 6pm (Arrive earlier)

Location: Canandaigua Downtown Shopping District 115 Main St. Canandaigua, NY 14424

For more information: https://www.visitfingerlakes.com/

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