On December 2nd, the Rockefeller Christmas tree was set to be lit. Security was its highest because of recent attacks on Paris, and just recently San Bernardino, California. More than 30,000 bulbs were used and over five miles of electrical wire. It was set to broadcast at 7 PM on “The Today Show”. Among the performances during this event were Sting, James Taylor featuring with Chris Botti, Andy Grammer, Carly Rae Jepsen, Pentatonix, Band of Merrymakers, and the Rockettes.

The tree was 78 feet tall and weighed about 10 tons! It grew in Gardiner, New York. The heightened security did not permit umbrellas, backpacks, or large bags. This is the first year the tree has come from New York in 5 years. The tree is approximately 80 years old. 45,000 multicolored LED lights were strung. The first formal Christmas tree at Rockefeller center was raised in 1933! The tradition started during the Great Depression; the tree stood as a symbol of hope, so all the Rockefeller center workers pulled together money to buy the tree.

In the Philadelphia community, and many other central places in Philadelphia, there are many celebrations for tree lighting. Some of these celebrations include a sparkling boat parade on the Delaware River to a festive decorated castle in Doylestown. Main attractions in Philadelphia include a tree lighting at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Rittenhouse Square, the City Hall celebration, the Christmas village, and LOVE park tree lighting. For the Annual Philadelphia tree lighting by city hall they will have Grammy nominated singer Jazmine Sullivan performing along with other performances by the Philadelphia Dance Academy and more.

This year on December 1 for the first time, there was a Children’s Lantern Parade. In addition, carolers from Walnut Street Theater sang around the city, wrapping around LOVE Park, and ending at the base of the Christmas tree.