2024 Guide To Every Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in NYC
Last Updated on November 20, 2024 by Erin Donahue
Imagine the magic of New York City transforming into a twinkling wonderland, one Christmas tree lighting ceremony at a time. The tradition that was first sparked in Madison Square Park back in 1912 has now blossomed into a citywide celebration, with the most anticipated Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in NYC promising to illuminate the holiday spirit across every borough. As a local NYC holiday enthusiast, I’ve scoured the city to compile the ULTIMATE guide to these festive illuminations – saving you hours of research and ensuring you don’t miss a single magical moment.
November 19
The Plaza Hotel Tree Lighting
If you’ve ever watched Home Alone, this Fairmont-managed hotel is where the famous movie took place. To fully immerse yourself, they even have a special “Lost in New Jersey” experience. The beautiful Christmas trees are in the lobby but be warned they have an annoying “no professional cameras” policy.
- Time: 5 – 7 pm
- Address: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
November 25
American Museum of Natural History Origami Holiday Tree
The 2024 holiday season’s 13-foot tree, Jumping for Joy, celebrates the many animals with a particular prowess that sets them apart: hopping, pouncing, leaping!
- Address: 200 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024
November 27
Light Up Brooklyn Commons
Presented by Brookfield Properties, attendees can explore an exhibition of carved ice sculptures by Okamoto Studio, observe live ice carving, sample holiday treats, and look on as Santa lights up the Brooklyn Commons Christmas tree.
- Time: 5-8 pm
- Address: 100 Myrtle Avenue, Downtown Brooklyn
November 30
Park Slope 15th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
- Time: 5:15 pm
- Address: 4th St. Plaza on the corner of 5th Ave. Brooklyn
December 2
Tavern on the Green Tree Lighting
Personally, I think Tavern On The Green has the most beautiful Christmas light decorations in all of NYC. I first came across it when I photographed a proposal during the holidays a few years ago. My breath was truly taken away when I stepped foot on the backyard patio. There’s a large Christmas tree and nutcrackers throughout the area, but the real scene stealer is the front entrance. It immediately makes you feel the holiday spirit and inside the restaurant is cozy and ambient!
- Time: 5:30-8:30 pm
- Address: W 67th St, New York, NY 10023
December 3
Tree Lighting at Bank of America Winter Village Bryant Park
On tree lighting night, the event features Tony Award-winning singers, performances by world-class ice skaters, fireworks, and more! Afterward, the ginormous Christmas tree there makes for a fabulous backdrop while strolling through all the vendor shops.
- Time: 6 pm
- Address: New York, NY 10018
South Street Seaport Holiday Tree Lighting
- Time: 7 pm
- Address: 89 South St, New York, NY 10038
December 4
Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Obviously, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting is the most famous in NYC. The tourist crowds are INSANE though! The Christmas tree is lit daily from an eye-watering 5 am (changed from 6 am) until midnight. For a crowd-free viewing, you’ll have to choose between a very late night or an even earlier morning than before.
- Time: 7 pm
- Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
December 5
NYSE 100th Annual Tree Lighting
The New York Stock Exchange Tree Lighting Event is a festive evening that features the iconic NYSE Christmas tree, live music performances, and various company activations.
- Time: 3-7 pm
- Address: 11 Wall St. New York, NY 10005
Central Park Holiday Lighting
28th annual holiday event on the Harlem Meer. Every year on this night, the Dana Center comes to life with a dazzling light display, followed by a flotilla of sparkling Christmas trees gliding across the water.
- Time: 5:30-7:30 pm
- Address: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center
December 7
Empire Outlets (Staten Island)
Adding this here to ensure there’s a full spectrum of Christmas tree lighting ceremonies throughout all five boroughs, but it’s Staten Island, the armpit of NYC.
- Time: 6:30 pm
- Address: 55 Richmond Ter, Staten Island, NY 10301
Morningside Park Tree Lighting
Hosted by Friends of Morningside Park and The Holiday Band, this neighborhood will be having an evening of jazz and merriment as they light up the tallest living tree in a NYC park.
- Time: 6 pm
- Address: West 121st Street Picnic Area and Handball Courts
Fort Greene Tree Lighting
The 10th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in partnership with Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn Partnership.
- Time: 4-5 pm
- Address: Myrtle Ave and St Edwards Street entrance
December 8
Park Avenue Tree Lighting
Brick Presbyterian Church hosts a cherished annual tradition on the Park Ave. steps.
- Time: 6:30 pm
- Address: The Sanctuary, 1140 Park Ave, New York, NY 10128
December 10
Washington Square Park Tree Lighting
After Madison Square Park, Washington Square Park holds the title of NYC’s 2nd longest-running tree lighting ceremony and 2024 will be the monumental 100-year anniversary! The Washington Square Association provides the annual 45-foot Christmas tree under the Arch that is lit for the season between the hours of 4 pm and 1 am.
- Time: 5 pm
- Address: Washington Square, New York, NY 10012
DUMBO Archway Tree Lighting
While you’re there, also look for the Construction Cone Tree made by DUMBO artist, Casey Opstad.
- Time: 4-7 pm
- Address: Adams St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
TBA
- Madison Square Park
- Lincoln Center
- Lotte New York Palace
- Zuccotti Park
- Riverside Park (Holiday on the Hudson)
- Athens Square Park (Astoria, Queens)
- Industry City (Brooklyn)
- Grand Army Plaza (Brooklyn)
- Carroll Park Holiday Tree Lighting
No tree-lighting ceremonies
The MET
Dress warm & don’t forget your camera. Happy snapping!