Rockefeller Center Selects 2026 Christmas Tree
A Norway spruce from West Edmeston is headed to New York City for the holiday season.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Seasonal Events
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Officials have chosen a Norway spruce from West Edmeston, New York, to serve as the 2026 Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. The tree will headline the annual holiday display in New York City before being repurposed.
Why it matters
The annual selection marks the beginning of the holiday season for New York City, maintaining a long-standing tradition at Rockefeller Plaza. Following the display, the tree supports sustainable practices through its donation to Habitat for Humanity.
The tree will be transported 200 miles to New York City and later milled into two-by-four and two-by-six beams at a yard in New Jersey. Following its display period, the lumber is donated to Habitat for Humanity for residential construction.
The players
Tishman Speyer
The real estate firm owns and operates Rockefeller Center in New York City.
Habitat for Humanity
This international nonprofit organization helps families build and improve places to call home.
The details
Crews will cut the tree down on its property in Otsego County before transporting it to Rockefeller Plaza. Once the display concludes in January, the tree will be sent to a New Jersey facility to be milled for charity.
Timeline
November 5, 2026: The tree will be cut down in West Edmeston.
November 7, 2026: The tree will be transported to New York City.
December 2, 2026: The official tree lighting ceremony will take place.
January 9, 2027: The tree will be removed from display.
Industry Dynamics
The selection follows the established annual pattern of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree tradition where a regional spruce becomes a global seasonal focal point. This practice maintains a high-profile cultural event that serves as a centerpiece for New York City holiday tourism.
Residents and tourists can visit the tree at Rockefeller Plaza starting with the official lighting ceremony on December 2. The display remains accessible to the public daily through January 9.
The takeaway
The transition of the holiday tree into construction lumber highlights the long-term utility of the seasonal display. Visitors planning to see the tree should mark the December lighting ceremony on their calendars to catch the start of the public display period.
Further reading
For more information on seasonal highlights, visit New York City Seasonal Events.
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Do you feel large public holiday displays are a worthwhile use of resources in your community?
