Christmas in Rockefeller Center will jumping with sounds of R&B, Soul and Pop this year thanks to a just announced line up that includes veteran recording artists Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige and Toni Braxton.
Slated to air Wednesday, Dec. 4 on NBC, the annual special will also include performances from Kelly Clarkson, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, Goo Goo Dolls, Ariana Grande and Jewel.
"NBC will celebrate the lighting of the world's most famous Christmas tree with a live broadcast from Rockefeller Center in New York City on Wednesday, Dec. 4 (8-9 p.m. ET)," NBC reports. "The star-studded holiday special is hosted by "Today" anchors Matt Lauer, Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker and Natalie Morales."
The 81st annual holiday extravaganza will feature a 76-foot Norway Spruce that is 47 feet in diameter and weighs approximately 12 tons. The tree is estimated to be about 75 years old. More than 45,000 energy-efficient multi-colored LED lights will be strung to decorate the tree, topped with a 9 1/2 foot wide LED-lit Swarovski crystal star.
The tradition of the Rockefeller Christmas tree dates back to the Great Depression. First erected in 1933, the inaugural tree was decked with 700 lights and placed in front of the then eight-month-old RCA Building (the current GE Building). The Christmas tree gathering was enhanced in 1936 with the opening of the Rockefeller Plaza outdoor ice-skating pond. NBC-TV televised the tree lighting for the first time in 1951 on "The Kate Smith Show" and as part of the nationwide "Howdy Doody" television show from 1953-55.
Get ready to ring in the holiday season with some of your favorite musical icons! Toni Braxton, Ariana Grande, and Mary J Blige are set to perform at this year’s ‘Christmas in Rockefeller Center’ celebration.
This highly anticipated event is a longstanding tradition that marks the official start of the holiday season for many Americans. The annual tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center is a spectacle to behold, with thousands flocking to see the dazzling display each year.
With such talented performers taking the stage, this year’s celebration promises to be one for the books. From classic Christmas carols to contemporary hits, these powerhouse singers are sure to bring their own unique flair and energy to the festivities.
So grab some hot cocoa and get ready to sing along – it’s time for ‘Christmas in Rockefeller Center’!
Performers to Watch at ‘Christmas in Rockefeller Center’
You’re gonna want to keep an eye out for the amazing performances by Toni Braxton, Ariana Grande, and Mary J Blige at ‘Christmas in Rockefeller Center.’ These three powerhouse vocalists are sure to bring their own unique style and flair to the event, making it one that you won’t want to miss.
Toni Braxton is a legendary R&B singer who has been wowing audiences with her soulful voice for decades. With hits like ‘Un-break My Heart’ and ‘Breathe Again’, she’s sure to bring a touch of nostalgic romance to the holiday festivities. Her smooth vocals are perfect for setting a romantic mood under the twinkling lights of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.
Ariana Grande is known for her impressive range and incredible vocal agility. From pop hits like ‘Thank U, Next’ to Broadway show tunes, she can sing just about anything with ease. Her high-energy performances are sure to get everyone in the audience up on their feet and dancing along. You won’t want to miss her rendition of classic Christmas tunes like ‘Santa Baby’ or ‘Last Christmas’.
The Iconic Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center
Take a stroll through the heart of New York City during the holiday season, and you’ll witness the iconic Christmas tree towering over Rockefeller Center. This towering symbol of the season stands at a staggering 75 feet tall and is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights.
The tree has become synonymous with Christmas in New York City and attracts visitors from all over the world. Each year, the chosen tree is carefully selected from various parts of the country and transported to Rockefeller Center, where it is decorated by a team of skilled professionals.
The tradition dates back to 1931 when workers constructing Rockefeller Center placed a small tree on top of their construction site. Today, this event has grown into a nationally televised celebration that includes live performances and celebrity appearances.
The lighting ceremony takes place on the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving, marking the official start to the holiday season in New York City. As you stand beneath its branches, taking in its beauty, it’s hard not to feel overcome with joy and excitement for what’s to come.
The iconic Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center truly embodies everything that makes this time of year so special.
Conclusion
So there you have it, you lucky viewer! You now know who to watch out for during the upcoming ‘Christmas in Rockefeller Center’ special.
Toni Braxton, Ariana Grande, and Mary J Blige are just a few of the talented performers set to grace the stage and bring us some holiday cheer. It’s going to be a night filled with music, lights, and festive fun that you won’t want to miss.
And let’s not forget about the iconic Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center itself. Standing tall at 75 feet and adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights, this is truly a sight to behold.
So gather your loved ones around the TV on December 2nd and get ready for an unforgettable night of entertainment and holiday magic.