Oh, Christmas Tree: America’s Most Celebrated Tree Lighting Ceremonies

The lights, the music, the magic! From elaborate, illuminated displays to chart-topping artists, tree lighting ceremonies have become a spectacular part of Christmas traditions. In honor of Tree Lighting Day, we’ve compiled a list of the most spectacular cities to see the brightest trees.

New York, NY
Head to Rockefeller Center to take in the holiday magic that comprises this iconic event—not to mention the record-breaking tree they bring into the Big Apple every year for the enchanting holiday ceremony. Since 1933, New Yorkers have enjoyed the lighting of their tree, usually a Norway spruce that’s 69 to 100 feet tall.

Beverly Hills, CA
Take a tour down Rodeo Drive to see not only one tree but many sparkling palm trees, birches and chandeliers that light up the night between Santa Monica and Wilshire Boulevards. Fireworks and a snow shower of confetti complete this glamorous event.

Washington, DC
A-list entertainers, military bands and the president himself make an appearance at the National Christmas Tree Lighting—an almost-century-old tradition that takes place at the White House and commences a three-week celebration.