The lighting of the New York City Christmas tree is a beloved annual tradition in the city. The event typically takes place in early December, with the exact date varying each year. The ceremony involves the turning on of the tree's lights by a special guest, which can be a celebrity or someone with ties to the city. The tree is usually located in Rockefeller Center and is illuminated with thousands of colorful lights, creating a dazzling display that draws crowds of onlookers from all over the world.