Rockefeller Center Tree Set to Arrive Nov. 7
A 76-foot Norway Spruce from Edmeston, New York will be transported to Manhattan this week for the holiday display.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
Rockefeller Center has selected a 76-foot Norway Spruce from Edmeston, New York as its 2026 Christmas tree. The tree is scheduled to be cut down and transported to Rockefeller Center starting Thursday, Nov. 5, and will be lit on Wednesday, Dec. 2.
Why it matters
The annual tree installation is a long-standing holiday tradition at Rockefeller Center in New York City, drawing visitors to the midtown Manhattan landmark. The tree's selection and transport reflect the logistics involved in moving a tree of this size across nearly 200 miles.
The tree stands 76 feet tall with a 50-foot diameter and weighs 11 tons. It will be hoisted by a 160-foot crane onto a 100-foot trailer for the almost 200-mile trip to New York City.
The players
Rockefeller Center
A midtown Manhattan complex known for its annual Christmas tree lighting and holiday display, which draws visitors from around the world.
Habitat for Humanity
A nonprofit organization that builds and repairs homes with volunteers, and which will receive lumber milled from the tree after the display ends.
The details
The Decker Family of Edmeston, New York is providing the Norway Spruce. The tree will be escorted by fire truck from the town to Rockefeller Center once it is loaded for transport.
Timeline
Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026: Tree departs Edmeston around noon.
Friday, Nov. 6, 2026: Tree expected to arrive at Rockefeller Center late at night, or early Saturday, Nov. 7.
Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026: Tree fully placed at Rockefeller Center.
Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2026: Tree to be lit.
Saturday, Jan. 9, 2027: Display ends and the tree is milled into lumber for Habitat for Humanity.
Roadmap
The 2026 selection continues Rockefeller Center's tradition of sourcing a Norway Spruce from the northeastern United States for its holiday display. The tree's transport and recycling into lumber for Habitat for Humanity follow the program's established practice.
Visitors to midtown Manhattan can expect the tree to be placed and lit at Rockefeller Center during the first week of November and December. Road and street conditions along the route may be affected by the trailer's transport and fire truck escort.
The takeaway
Plan visits to Rockefeller Center around the scheduled lighting on Wednesday, Dec. 2, and note the tree will remain on display until Saturday, Jan. 9, 2027.
Further reading
For more on vehicle logistics and transport, explore Electric Vehicles coverage on Wisevoter.
