Glistening with over 50,000 festive LED lights, stands a Norway spruce 74-feet tall in the middle of Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan. This is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York City, a popular destination for about 750,000 visitors a day throughout the holiday season, according to nyctourism.com.

     Since the tree was first put up in 1931, it has held great meaning to the people of New York City and beyond. During the Great Depression, the tree became a symbol of hope and joy.

     According to the ABC News website, in 1931, Rockefeller Center workers compiled their money together to buy a 20-foot balsam fir. They decorated it with handmade garlands and ornaments, to represent unity during a difficult time.

     Later, in 1933, the first lighting ceremony was held for the tree, which became a permanent tradition. Now, the lighted tree has become a major attraction for people worldwide.

     Reflecting on its personal significance, Nupur Shah (‘27) said, “When I used to live in the city, the tree was a place where I could bring friends and family and enjoy the Christmas festivities together, like ice skating or drinking overpriced hot chocolate.”

     In 2018, the tree had a brand new addition: a nine-foot-tall, 900-pound Swarovski star shimmering atop the tree with a whopping 3-million crystals and an estimated value of $1.5 million, according to The New York Post.

     “The decorations on the tree are beautiful,” said gym teacher Ms. Marcey Brown-Denson “Decorations you would never think of are on this tree. In every spot possible, every branch is kissed with a touch of love. There are thousands of lights, and the star at the top is breathtaking.”.

     Sarang Chong (‘28) said, “When I visited the tree, I was kind of in awe of the attention to detail of the tree and how much work there was to decorate it.”

     This year’s tree, as reported by The Associated Press website, came from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts and had its lighting ceremony on Dec. 4th and will be on display until mid-January.

     The atmosphere around the tree feels welcoming, according to Ms. Brown. “When you are there, strangers become family for the moment, and everyone shows love and compassion. It’s just a good feeling.”

     Ms. Brown added, “The tree brings people together in celebration, love, and light regardless of background. It marks the start of the holiday season in a special way, representing hope, togetherness, and peace.”