CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is happening this Wednesday and the elaborate ceremony is one of the country's most beloved traditions.
But how did the dazzling tradition begin? Let's connect the dots.
It all started in 1931 during the Great Depression. Construction workers building Rockefeller Center pooled their money to buy a 20-foot tree. They decorated it with tin cans, cranberries and paper garland to bring some joy during tough times.
By 1933, Rockefeller Center made it official with a grand tree-lighting ceremony. Over the years, the tree grew taller, the decorations more elaborate and the lighting ceremonies more spectacular.
By 1950, the process required 20 full-time workers and nine days of preparation. The next year, NBC televised the tree lighting for the first time, and the tradition as we know it today began.
Fast forward to 2024 and this year's 74-foot Norway Spruce will be decorated with 50,000 LEDs and topped with a Swarovski star featuring 3 million crystals. It's come a long way from its humble beginnings.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting ceremony will air Wednesday, Dec. 4 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on WCNC Charlotte and Peacock. The show, hosted by Kelly Clarkson, will feature live performances from Clarkson, the Backstreet Boys, Little Big Town, Coco Jones, Jennifer Hudson and more.
In addition to the musical acts, "Today" anchors Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, Al Roker and Craig Melvin will be part of the ceremony.