The Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting 2025 refers to the daily illumination schedule of the 75-foot Norway Spruce at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, which is currently active for the holiday season. While the official lighting ceremony took place on December 3, the tree remains lit every day from 5:00 AM to Midnight through early January 2026, serving as the centerpiece of New York City’s holiday tourism.

If you are in New York right now (December 21), you are entering the peak “Holiday Week” crowds. Navigating Midtown Manhattan during this time requires a strategic plan to avoid gridlock. This guide covers the exact lighting schedules, street closures, and the best entrances to ensure you see the lights without getting stuck in the stampede.

Daily Lighting Schedule (December 2025 – January 2026)

The tree is now fully lit for the season. Unlike the limited hours of some holiday attractions, the Rockefeller Center Tree offers ample viewing time, including a special 24-hour display on Christmas Eve.

Note: The tree is typically taken down around January 14, 2026, so plan your visit before the second week of January to be safe.

Entrances, Street Closures, and Navigation

Viewing the tree is not as simple as walking up to it. Due to the massive crowds (up to 750,000 visitors daily), the NYPD and Rockefeller Center management enforce strict pedestrian flow zones. For a broader understanding of getting around this area, check our guide on Navigating Midtown Manhattan: A Transportation Guide for Visitors.

Pedestrian-Only Zones (Car-Free Streets)

To maximize safety, the city has pedestrianized the streets immediately surrounding the tree:

• West 49th Street (between 5th & 6th Aves): Closed to cars 11:00 AM – Midnight.
• West 50th Street (between 5th & 6th Aves): Closed to cars 11:00 AM – Midnight.
• Fifth Avenue: While the “Open Streets” Sundays have concluded for 2025 (the last was Dec 14), the sidewalks on 5th Avenue are expanded with moveable barriers to accommodate crowds.

Best Entrances for Viewing

Choosing the right entrance can save you 20-30 minutes of shuffling through a crowd.

1. The “Classic” Route (Most Crowded): Entering from 5th Avenue via the Channel Gardens.
   • Pros: This is the iconic view. You walk between the angel statues with the tree perfectly framed ahead.
   • Cons: This is the primary “choke point.” Expect shoulder-to-shoulder crowds and slow movement, especially after 4:00 PM.
2. The “Smart” Route (Recommended): Approach from 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas).
   • Pros: Generally less chaotic. You can view the tree from the “back” or side, and easily access the view overlooking the Rink. It allows for a quicker exit if the crowd becomes overwhelming.
   • Cons: You don’t get the “approach” shot down the long garden, but you still see the tree clearly.
3. The Underground Route:
   • If it is freezing or raining, you can enter the Rockefeller Center Concourse (via the subway station at 47-50th Sts). You can grab a coffee at Manhattan’s Mindful Morsels style cafes underground and pop up closer to the Rink, though security may restrict upward flow during peak hours.

Crowd Management: Surviving the Christmas Crush

The week between December 21 and January 1 is the busiest time of the year in NYC. Here is how to manage the chaos:

Best Times to Visit

• The Golden Hour (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM): This is the only time you will get a photo without strangers in it. The lights are on, the city is waking up, and the plaza is peaceful.
• Late Night (After 11:00 PM): The crowds thin out significantly just before the lights go off at midnight.

Times to Avoid

• 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM: This is “Gridlock Alert” time. The combination of office workers leaving and tourists arriving makes the area nearly impassable.
• Christmas Day Afternoon: Traditionally one of the most packed times.

Paid Viewing Options: Are They Worth It?

If you prefer a guaranteed view without the street hustle, there are ticketed options:

• The Rink at Rockefeller Center: Skating gets you directly under the tree. Prices are premium during holiday weeks ($40-$100+ per person), and VIP tickets offer heated igloos.
• Top of the Rock: While primarily for skyline views, ticket holders this year have access to specific observation areas. It’s a great way to see the city lights, and you can find capturing the city tips here.

FAQ: Rockefeller Center Tree 2025

For those looking to explore more holiday magic nearby, consider walking over to the Seasonal Outdoor Markets at Bryant Park, which is just a short walk south on 6th Avenue.