Photo: CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP / Getty Images
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a 75-foot-tall Norway spruce, will be lit tonight in Manhattan. The tree, donated by Judy Russ from East Greenbush, New York, stands as a tribute to her late husband, Dan Russ. The Russ family had long dreamed of having their tree featured at Rockefeller Center. After Dan passed away in 2020 at the age of 32, Judy decided to honor his memory by donating their cherished tree.
The tree, which has been part of the Russ family property for over 60 years, was cut down on November 6 and transported to Rockefeller Center, arriving on November 8. Erik Pauze, Rockefeller Center's head gardener, selected the tree after visiting the Russ farm. He described it as the perfect choice for the annual holiday tradition.
The tree lighting ceremony will be broadcast live on NBC, featuring performances by various stars. The tree will be adorned with 50,000 LED lights and topped with a Swarovski star. Judy Russ and her son, Liam, will attend the ceremony, sharing their tree with millions of visitors and viewers.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has been a New York holiday tradition since 1933. After the holiday season, the tree's wood will be donated to Habitat for Humanity, where it will be used to build homes across the country.
Photo Credit: Getty Images