Reba McEntire to Host NBC’s 2025 Christmas in Rockefeller Center Special
This year’s Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree comes from East Greenbush, New York, and it will shine under the guidance of a country legend: Reba McEntire.
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| Reba McEntire |
Originally reported: November 6, 2025 | Updated: November 7, 2025
What Happened
A 75-foot Norway spruce from East Greenbush, New York, has been chosen as the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. The tree, donated by the Russ family, was harvested November 6 and began its 130-mile journey to Manhattan, where it will be installed at 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
As part of the annual tradition, NBC’s Christmas in Rockefeller Center broadcast will mark the lighting on December 3, with country music icon Reba McEntire hosting and performing for the first time.
Key Details
• Tree Origin: East Greenbush, New York, donated by the Russ family.
• Type and Size: Norway spruce, about 75 feet tall, 11 tons.
• Lighting Ceremony: December 3 on NBC and Peacock.
• Host: Reba McEntire, marking her first time leading the nationally televised special.
• Decorations: 50,000 LED lights and a 900-pound Swarovski star with 3 million crystals.
• After Display: Wood will be repurposed for Habitat for Humanity projects.
Why It Matters
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree remains one of America’s most watched holiday traditions, and this year’s addition of Reba McEntire adds a country connection to a national stage. Hosting the live broadcast introduces millions of new viewers to her warmth and humor while bringing Nashville’s spirit to New York’s holiday season. For the Russ family, whose tree will illuminate midtown Manhattan, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment shared with audiences worldwide.
Context and Fan Reaction
Speaking with People, Reba McEntire said she is “really excited to get to go to New York City in December” for the first time. “To see all the Christmas decorations and to get to be a part of the tree lighting ceremony at Rockefeller Center it’s something that I’ve always wanted to do, and I’m honored that they asked me.”
She laughed that she plans to “triple, quadruple layer” for the weather, adding, “I’ll probably have my heated vest on, and all the clothes I can, insulated underwear.”
Fans online called her “the perfect pick,” praising her charm and saying she embodies the heart of the season. Many noted how natural it feels to see one of country music’s most beloved voices leading such a longstanding national celebration.
ByteSize Commentary
It feels almost overdue that one of country music’s most beloved voices is finally stepping into one of America’s most beloved holiday traditions. Reba McEntire’s mix of humor, poise, and natural warmth makes her a perfect fit for the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting a role that feels tailor-made, even if it’s somehow her first time hosting.
Reba’s presence adds something distinctly personal to a spectacle often defined by lights and scale. She bridges the big-city shine of New York with the small-town heart that country fans know so well. It’s the kind of blend that could make this year’s broadcast stand out less about glitz, more about genuine joy.
In a season built on nostalgia and togetherness, pairing Reba with one of the nation’s most enduring holiday moments just feels right. It’s a wonder it didn’t happen sooner.
What to Watch Next
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree will be officially lit December 3 on NBC and Peacock. The tree remains on display through mid-January before being milled into lumber for Habitat for Humanity. Reba McEntire’s performance lineup is expected to include holiday classics and selections from her Not That Fancy album, with details to be announced closer to broadcast.
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