Rockefeller Christmas Tree.

The Rockefeller Christmas Tree dates back to 1933 officially (unofficially, construction workers hoisted the first tree in 1931). Considered the most iconic Christmas Tree in New York City, a new conifer is selected every year with an impressive requirement, it must be at least 75 feet tall.

Decorated with more than five miles of lights and topped with a breathtaking Swarovski star, seeing this masterpiece in person is one of the best free things to do in NYC at Christmas.

My advice is to visit as early as possible (ideally first thing in the morning) because the crowds get quite intense in the evenings!

NYC Christmas Guide 12 Awe-Inspiring New York City Christmas Trees (Local’s Guide)

Decorating a Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Center is a tradition that dates back to 1933, officially. Unofficially, workers pooled together to buy the first tree in 1931 (amid the crippling Great Depression) when the national unemployment rate crested 23%.

Keen to manifest the holiday spirit, the 20-foot fir was dressed with handmade garlands made by the worker’s families. Two years later, Rockefeller Center decided to make the tree an annual tradition and held the first lighting festival in 1933.

Arguably the most iconic Christmas Tree in NYC, selecting this centerpiece is no easy feat. The tree must be at least 75 feet tall and 45 feet wide (traditionally, a Norway spruce is selected). Once plucked, the famous spruce is decorated with more than five miles of lights and crowned with a breathtaking Swarovski star.

A masterpiece in its own right, the star is composed of three million crystals and measures 9 feet and 4 inches. Admiring the beauty up close is one of the best things to do at Rockefeller Center during Christmas.