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Vintage Holiday Images of Rockefeller Center

Lauren Newman06 mins

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: A Historical Journey

This article takes you through the enchanting history of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, a beloved holiday tradition that has brightened New York City’s winter landscape for decades.

Tradition of the Christmas Tree

The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is more than just a festive decoration; it represents a cherished cultural symbol for both locals and visitors. Each year, the tree lighting ceremony attracts crowds and embodies the spirit of the holiday season.

Notable Years in History

  • 1931: The first Christmas tree was erected, setting a precedent for a long-lasting New York City tradition. Construction workers gathered around, marking a moment in history that would become iconic.
  • 1946: A 75-foot Norway spruce was lifted into place, becoming a symbol of winter resilience in the city.
  • 1952: The tree size reached an impressive 85 feet, captivating the eyes of onlookers, including fascinated children.
  • 1962: People gather to witness the traditional lighting ceremony, enchanted by the vibrant visuals of the season.
  • 1983: Despite rainy weather, tourists embraced the moment, demonstrating the tree’s pull even in inclement conditions.
  • 2002: A stunning 76-foot Norway spruce from Bloomsbury, New Jersey, caught the spotlight, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights.

The Tree as a New York Landmark

Throughout the years, the Rockefeller Christmas tree has become a famous landmark, associated with the festive spirit of the season. It inspires both tourists and locals alike to create lasting memories as they marvel at its beauty.

Legacy of Holiday Cheer

The legacy of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree continues to thrive, evoking feelings of joy and nostalgia. Every year, as visitors congregate to witness the light display, the tree stands tall, reminding us of the warmth and togetherness that the holiday season brings.

Conclusion

In summary, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree represents an enduring symbol of holiday cheer and New York City’s cultural narrative. As we look back on its historical significance, we recognize its role in uniting people through shared holidays and traditions. Therefore, the next time you gaze at the magnificent tree, remember the rich history it represents.

Images of the Tree Through the Years

1931: Construction workers line up for pay beside the first Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in New York.
1931: Construction workers line up for pay beside the first Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in New York.
1946: A derrick begins the job of lifting a stately 75-foot Norway spruce to an upright position.
1946: A derrick begins the job of lifting a stately 75-foot Norway spruce to an upright position.
1947: A few hardy pedestrians make their way through snow drifts after one of the city's heavier New York winter storms.
1947: A few hardy pedestrians make their way through snow drifts after one of the city’s heavier New York winter storms.
1952: An 85-foot Norway spruce is jockeyed into position under the watchful eyes of a trio of interested youngsters.
1952: An 85-foot Norway spruce is jockeyed into position under the watchful eyes of a trio of interested youngsters.
1962: A couple is entranced by the beauty of the scene after the traditional lighting of the tree.
1962: A couple is entranced by the beauty of the scene after the traditional lighting of the tree.
1969: In living color! Angel decorations line the way from Fifth Avenue toward the ice skating rink and Christmas tree.
1969: In living color! Angel decorations line the way from Fifth Avenue toward the ice skating rink and Christmas tree.
1970: The firmly established tradition enters a new decade.
1970: The firmly established tradition enters a new decade.
1979: The Christmas tree towers over the popular ice skating rink.
1979: The Christmas tree towers over the popular ice skating rink.
1983: Tourists armed with umbrellas are not repelled by a steady downpour as they make the rounds.
1983: Tourists armed with umbrellas are not repelled by a steady downpour as they make the rounds.
1996: The center is aglow in gold and white.
1996: The center is aglow in gold and white.
1999: Ice skaters make the rounds framed by the statue of Prometheus and the center's 100-foot Norway spruce.
1999: Ice skaters make the rounds framed by the statue of Prometheus and the center’s 100-foot Norway spruce.
2002: A 76-foot Norway spruce from Bloomsbury, New Jersey, is illuminated with 30,000 lights.
2002: A 76-foot Norway spruce from Bloomsbury, New Jersey, is illuminated with 30,000 lights.
2007: The Radio City Rockettes perform the tree-lighting ceremony.
2007: The Radio City Rockettes perform the tree-lighting ceremony.
2012: Folks watch as an 80-year-old Norway spruce is raised into position.
2012: Folks watch as an 80-year-old Norway spruce is raised into position.
2013: Spectators in buildings overlooking Rockefeller Center watch the festivities.
2013: Spectators in buildings overlooking Rockefeller Center watch the festivities.


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