The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a symbol of the holiday season in New York City, attracting millions of visitors each year. The tree is typically adorned with an impressive number of lights and a significant length of wiring.

As of the 2022 season, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree is decorated with approximately 50,000 LED lights. These lights are not just for decoration; they are designed to be energy-efficient while providing a brilliant display that can be seen from a distance. The use of LED lights also aligns with modern sustainability efforts, reducing energy consumption compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.

In addition to the lights, the tree is wrapped with about 5 miles of wiring. This extensive wiring is necessary to connect all the lights and ensure they work seamlessly. The setup process for the tree is quite elaborate, involving a team of professionals who carefully install the lights and check the wiring to guarantee everything is functioning correctly.

The Rockefeller Christmas Tree tradition dates back to the early 1930s, and it has grown significantly in scale over the decades. For example, the first tree in 1931 had only a modest number of lights and decorations. Over the years, the tree has evolved, with the number of lights increasing substantially to create the dazzling display we see today.

In 2021, the tree was adorned with a stunning 900-pound Swarovski crystal star at its top, which itself is a remarkable piece of art, featuring over 3 million crystals. This star complements the lights, enhancing the overall visual impact of the tree.

For those interested in visiting, the tree lighting ceremony typically occurs in late November or early December, marking the beginning of the Christmas season in New York City. The event is broadcasted live, showcasing the beauty of the tree and the festive atmosphere surrounding Rockefeller Center.

For more information, you can visit the official Rockefeller Center website, which provides updates and details about the Christmas tree and other holiday festivities.