2025 Christmas tree for Rockefeller Center chosen from location near Albany, New York.
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas tree has been chosen, marking the start of the festive season in New York City. This year’s tree, a majestic 75-foot Norway spruce, will be sourced from a home in East Greenbush, New York, approximately five miles south of downtown Albany. The selection was made by Erik Pauze, the head gardener at Rockefeller Center, who identified the tree months ago as a perfect fit for the iconic holiday display.
Scheduled for cutting on November 6, the tree will undergo a careful transportation process to reach Manhattan by November 8. Pauze expressed enthusiasm for the tree, noting its ideal qualities, which he likened to a tree that would be a perfect centerpiece in one’s living room, but on a much grander scale. The selection process is meticulous, as the tree is a focal point for visitors and locals alike during the holiday season.
The Rockefeller Center tree lighting ceremony is set to take place on December 3, where the Norway spruce will be adorned with an impressive 50,000 lights and topped with a striking Swarovski star. This annual event continues to attract crowds from around the world, bringing a sense of enchantment and holiday spirit to the heart of Manhattan.
The tree has been generously donated by the Russ family, who have a long-standing connection to the local community. Pauze remarked that he was initially introduced to the tree through a Rockefeller Center security supervisor, who believed it would make an excellent candidate for this year’s display. Judy Rush, a family member, expressed her happiness about the tree’s selection, highlighting the cherished memories it will help create among family and friends as it becomes a part of the world’s Christmas celebrations.
Once the festivities conclude in mid-January, the tree will be removed and repurposed into lumber for Habitat for Humanity, furthering its legacy beyond the holiday season. Such decisions align with the broader commitment of Rockefeller Center to sustainability.
Historically, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree often hails from upstate New York, contributing to the local charm of the event. However, last year’s tree originated from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts. Previous selections have included trees from various towns and cities within the Empire State, such as Vestal, Queensbury, Wallkill, and Oneonta, showcasing the region’s rich forestry resources.
As anticipation builds for the tree’s arrival and the subsequent ceremonial lighting, this year’s Norway spruce promises to enhance New York City’s festive atmosphere, serving as a symbol of hope and joy for many.
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