The 7 Best Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies in the U.S.

National Christmas Tree Lighting

Starting our list of the best Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in the U.S. is the National Christmas Tree Lighting in Washington, D.C. This lovely national tradition dates back to the early 1900s. It’s a large evergreen tree that is decorated every year. The first tree in this tradition was a 48-foot fir decorated with more than 2,500 electric bulbs. The ceremony began with a performance on December 24, 1923, at 3 P.M.. At 5 P.M., the tree was turned on.

This first ceremony, though, is very different from what we have now. So, when can you visit this tree? The ceremony is broadcast on CBS. If you’ve missed any of the last few years, you can catch highlights online, along with performances. 

Rockefeller Center

Second on our list is another well-known tree lighting, the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony in New York. Generally, this massive tree is first lit on November 29 each year. It turns on every night from 5 am to midnight. The last day this tree stays on is January 13th at 10 pm. The hours vary depending on if the date lands on a holiday, like Christmas. Not only can you admire this vibrant and gorgeous tree, but also do so by ice skating on The Rink at Rockefeller Center.

Zilker Holiday Tree

If the two previous tree lighting ceremonies on our list don’t capture your attention, you can also visit the Zilker Holiday Tree in Austin, Texas. This tree looks a bit different from others on our list. Firstly, it’s not a real natural tree. Instead, the Zilker Holiday Tree is 155 feet tall and made up of 39 streamers with over 3,000 little lights. This creates a unique experience where guests can walk inside the tree! The Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony dates change every year.

Rice Park Tree Lighting Ceremony

Next on our list is the Rice Park Tree Lighting Ceremony in Minnesota. This cute tree-lighting ceremony is a local favorite and a hidden gem for the holidays. Within downtown St. Paul is a 40-foot artificial holiday tree decorated in brilliant lights. Natural trees in St. Paul’s historic park are also decorated.

The Telluride Ski Tree

Another great tree on our list of the 7 best Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in the U.S. is the Telluride Ski Tree. This unique tree is worth a visit if you are leaning away from seeing traditional trees. You see, the Telluride Ski Tree isn’t natural, but it’s also not an artificial tree with banners. Instead, the Telluride Ski Tree is made up of skis, just as the name suggests. Its history is short, but that doesn’t make this interesting tree any less special. The Telluride Ski Tree was born in 2013 and has continued since.

Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration

The Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration is another must-visit spot. This California favorite holiday event changes slightly every year, but the tree lighting is generally in late November. Beverly Hills transforms into a vibrant and glowing holiday city with just the push of a button. The lights and displays remain on until after Christmas.

Delray Beach Tree Lighting

If you’re driving through Delray, it’s hard to miss the massive and bright Christmas tree. Last on our list is the Delray Beach Tree Lighting. Visitors from throughout the state and country come together to see this 100-foot tree come to life. Not only can you watch as the tree sparks to life, but you also enjoy fun games, delicious foods, and gorgeous local crafts at the Yuletide Street Fair/Holiday Village. Ice skating is also available.