Skip to main content

Since 1931, The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been the epicenter of the holiday season in Midtown, Manhattan. Every year, thousands of onlookers watch as New York City lights up with holiday cheer and at the center of it all is the special’s host, Kelly Clarkson. How many times has she hosted Christmas in Rockefeller Center?

Kelly Clarkson is at the heart of the 2-hour holiday special

In a tradition spanning over nine decades, NBC celebrates the holiday season with the annual lighting of one of the world’s most famous trees. Kelly Clarkson will lead an exciting group of performers and entertainers as they celebrate the holiday season during Christmas in Rockefeller Center.

In addition to her hosting duties, Clarkson will treat viewers to joyful performances throughout the evening. Clarkson first performed on Christmas in Rockefeller Center more than 20 years ago and has returned to celebrate the tree lighting several times before her hosting debut in 2023.  

“There is truly no tradition like watching that gorgeous tree sparkle and transforming Rockefeller Center into the epicenter of the holiday season in New York,” said Jen Neal, Executive Vice President of Live Events and Specials, at NBC Universal Entertainment in a press release. “With Kelly at the helm, we can’t wait to share this wonderful special and celebrate with the entire country.”  

Who are the performers and special guests of ‘Christmas in Rockefeller Center’ 2024?

Radio City Music Hall Rockettes performing at 'Christmas at Rockefeller Center' 2023
Radio City Music Hall Rockettes performing at ‘Christmas in Rockefeller Center’ 2023 | Ralph Bavaro/NBC via Getty Images
Related

‘Christmas at Rockefeller Center’: Is This Cher’s First Time Lighting Up the Stage?

NBC’s Christmas in Rockefeller Center features festive performances from an all-star lineup of musical guests. These performers include Backstreet Boys, Jennifer Hudson, Dan + Shay, Megan Hilty, Coco Jones, Little Big Town, RAYE, and Thalia.

In addition, the Radio City Rockettes, stars of the annual Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, will be at the heart of a special performance. The Rockettes have performed at the famed theater since 1932.

TODAY anchors Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, Al Roker and Craig Melvin will also appear. This will likely be Kotb’s last Rockefeller tree lighting as a member of the NBC morning show since announcing her exit.

Plus, before the primetime telecast, an additional live hour of the special will be hosted by Access Hollywood host Mario Lopez, alongside WNBC news anchors Natalie Pasquarella and David Ushery. Additionally, Telemundo will simulcast Navidades en Rockefeller Center (Christmas in Rockefeller Center), starting at 9 p.m. 

What is the history of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?

In December 1931, Rockefeller Center workers pooled their money together to buy a Christmas tree. It stood outside the famed office building as a symbol of the holiday season.

Per Rockefeller Center’s official site, the workers decorated the first 20-foot high balsam fir with handmade garlands made by their families. Thus began a tradition that has continued for almost 90 years.

The current Rockefeller Center tree hails from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts. More than 50,000 multi-colored LED lights will be turned on just before 10 p.m. EST.

At the tree’s top is a three-dimensional Swarovski star. It weighs approximately 900 pounds and features 70 spikes covered in 3 million crystals.

After Christmas, the 2024 tree will be donated to Habitat for Humanity. The symbol of the holiday season will subsequently be milled, treated, and made into lumber used for home building.

Christmas in Rockefeller Center airs live on Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.  

Best in Entertainment