By: h. nazan ışık —

29 November 2023 —

It’s that time of year again. The famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree  lit on Wednesday, 29 November 2023. Why is it very important? It is officially ringing in the Christmas spirit  and brings thousands of people to enjoy the holiday season and holiday spirit in New York.

The tree lighting opened to the public around 16:00 o’clock  (4 p.m.) at 48th Street and 6th Avenue and at 51st Street and 6th Avenue with spectator entry points. The lighting ceremony, hosted by Emmy and Grammy Award winner Kelly Clarkson and with performances began at 20:00 o’clock (8 p.m.) and  the tree was actually lit a few minutes before 22:00 ( 10 p.m.).

© h. nazan ışık

The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree was lit at about 10 p.m.

The NYPD expected thousands of people  to attend the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting, and expected protesters to show up too.

And was prepared  for potential protests.

© h. nazan ışık

© h. nazan ışık

Lawn chairs, blankets, large coolers, large bags, backpacks, umbrellas and alcohol were prohibited to come with.  And, security barricades were placed everywhere.

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© h.nazan ışık

 Security barricades

According to the NYPD, despite a pro-Palestinian demonstration nearby at 47th Street and Sixth Avenue, the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree went off without any difficulty or obstacle.

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I asked police officers if they enjoyed the ceremony? 

“We didn’t see it but enjoyed the music” they said.

“It is pretty cold. How long are you supposed to be here? ” I asked. 

“Oh, until we get the order to leave, but at least until  midnight,” they answered. 

© h. nazan ışık

It was almost after 11 p.m, when I left. Yes, it was a cold evening  and I think it was a very long day for some officers.

The Rockefeller tree will be lit daily from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m., until 13 January. all 24 hours on Christmas Day and will be lit from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.

Photographs © h. nazan ışık / NKENdiKEN