Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree 2018
Have you ever been to New York City for the holidays? If so, we imagine you’re longing to return! And if not, you’re truly missing out. New York City provides one of the most joyous and festive holiday experiences in the country, if not the world. In typical New York fashion, everything is bigger and brighter.
An excellent example of this is the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Each year, the City of New York imports a massive tree into the middle of Rockefeller Plaza. The tree is routinely one of the most famous and popular holiday tourist attractions in the United States. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
Where Does The Tree Come From?
One of the questions that on-lookers continually ask is about where the tree originated. This year’s tree will soon arrive from Wallkill, which is about 60 miles north of New York City. It stands 72-feet tall and weighs 12 tons.
The tree was donated to the City by a couple, Shirley Figueroa and Lissette Gutierrez. The tree had existed on their property as long as the couple has lived there. When donating the tree, Figueroa said, “Now it’s not my tree, it’s the world’s tree. I’m so happy to be able to share her with everyone. Millions of people will come to visit Shelby.” While the couple was initially reluctant to give up the tree, they eventually came around to the idea.
What Are The Next Steps For The Tree?
After the tree is transported into the city, it is cared for and prepared by Erik Pauze, who serves as the head gardener of Rockefeller Center. Pauze will continue to care for the tree as long as it is in the city. He will water the tree and continually feed it compost tea as long as it is in New York City.
On November 28, a crane will hoist the tree upright. This is a magical ceremony that is nationally televised. If you can’t make it to the lighting of the tree, you should be sure to at least watch it on television. Workers will have already decorated the three with more than five miles of multicolored light. There will also be a 900-pound Swarovski crystal star on top of the tree.
The tree will remain in New York City until January 7. If you live close to New York City and would like to see the tree, but do not want to fight through holiday crowds, then you should consider visiting after the New Year holiday. The holiday crowds tend to die down significantly then.
Once the tree is taken down, City officials will donate it to the Habitat for Humanity, who will turn it into lumber that they can use for housing. When lit, the tree gives hope, joy, and holiday spirit to the millions of people who visit. But even after it’s taken down, it will continue to give to others. If possible, be sure to take a trip to New York City to visit the Rockefeller Christmas tree this year!