**NYC Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Schedule**

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 10, 2024

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NYC Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Schedule: A Guide to Holiday Cheer

The holiday season in New York City is truly magical, and nothing kicks it off quite like the iconic Christmas tree lighting ceremonies. From towering evergreens in Rockefeller Center to charming neighborhood celebrations, the city bursts with festive spirit. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this guide will help you navigate the best Christmas tree lighting events in NYC.

Key Dates and Locations:

1. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting: This is the granddaddy of them all, a quintessential New York City experience. The tree lighting ceremony takes place on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving at the iconic Rockefeller Center.

• Location: Rockefeller Center, 49th St & 5th Ave
• Time: Ceremony begins at 7:00 PM, broadcast live on NBC

2. Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade: Although not technically a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade features the iconic Santa Claus float, marking the official start of the Christmas season.

• Location: Begins at 77th St & Central Park West, continues down Central Park West, and finishes at Macy's Herald Square
• Time: Parade starts at 9:00 AM

3. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: This Brooklyn neighborhood is famous for its over-the-top Christmas decorations, with residents going all out to create elaborate light displays. The neighborhood is lit up throughout December, and there's no official lighting ceremony.

• Location: Dyker Heights, Brooklyn
• Time: The lights are on display starting in late November.

4. Brooklyn Botanic Garden Holiday Lights: This popular event features a dazzling display of twinkling lights throughout the garden, including a 20-foot tall Christmas tree.

• Location: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn
• Time: The lights are on display from November 19th to January 7th, with special events scheduled throughout the season.

5. The Shops at Columbus Circle Christmas Tree Lighting: This elegant shopping destination features a grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony in late November.

• Location: The Shops at Columbus Circle, 10 Columbus Circle, Manhattan
• Time: The lighting ceremony typically takes place around 5:00 PM.

6. Grand Central Terminal Christmas Tree Lighting: This iconic train station hosts a charming Christmas tree lighting ceremony, with carols and festive performances.

• Location: Grand Central Terminal, 89 E 42nd St, Manhattan
• Time: Typically held in early December

7. Bryant Park Winter Village Christmas Tree Lighting: This festive winter village in Bryant Park features a towering Christmas tree lighting ceremony, followed by carols, ice skating, and holiday market shopping.

• Location: Bryant Park, 40th St & 6th Ave, Manhattan
• Time: The lighting ceremony typically takes place in late November.

8. Lincoln Center Christmas Tree Lighting: This performing arts center hosts a grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony, followed by a concert by the New York Philharmonic.

• Location: Lincoln Center, 65th St & Broadway, Manhattan
• Time: Typically held in early December

9. Battery Park City Holiday Tree Lighting: This Lower Manhattan neighborhood hosts a festive Christmas tree lighting ceremony, with carols, hot chocolate, and family-friendly activities.

• Location: Battery Park City, Manhattan
• Time: The ceremony typically takes place in late November.

10. Madison Square Garden Christmas Tree Lighting: Although the iconic Garden itself doesn't host a tree lighting ceremony, there are numerous events and decorations throughout the holiday season.

• Location: Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, Manhattan
• Time: Events and decorations begin in late November.

Beyond Official Ceremonies:

Don't forget to explore the city's many charming neighborhoods and discover hidden gems of Christmas cheer. Stroll through Greenwich Village, discover the festive lights in Soho, or take a walk along the Upper East Side – each neighborhood offers its own unique holiday charm.

Tips for Attending a Tree Lighting Ceremony:

• Arrive early: The most popular ceremonies tend to get crowded, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
• Dress warmly: Winter in NYC can be chilly, so make sure you're bundled up.
• Enjoy the atmosphere: The festive spirit is contagious, so relax and enjoy the holiday magic.
• Capture memories: Don't forget to snap photos of the beautiful Christmas trees and decorations.

Remember, the Christmas spirit is alive and well in NYC. Embrace the holiday magic, enjoy the festive events, and soak up the unique charm of the city during this special time of year!