Rockefeller Christmas tree has arrived in NYC and the story behind it will melt your heart

The holiday season has officially begun in New York City! The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree made its grand entrance through Manhattan. This year’s 75-foot-tall spruce arrived after a 130-mile journey, and the story behind it is even more heart-warming.

Why this year's Christmas tree is more special than before

The giant Norway spruce was donated by the Russ family from East Greenbush, New York. Weighing a whopping 11 tons and spanning 45 feet in diameter, the tree turned heads as it rolled through Manhattan. The arrival of the Rockefeller tree signals the start of the festive season for many New Yorkers — and this year’s tree is even more special.

The Russ family knew the 75-year-old tree standing outside their home in East Greenbush had the potential to become the spectacular Christmas tree that would take New Yorkers’ breath away.

When Rockefeller Center’s head gardener, Erik Pauze, came to see the tree in person, they knew their dream was soon to come true.

The backstory that defines holiday spirit

Judy Russ, who grew up in New York City, knew what this meant. What did this selection mean for her family? “I think I just hallucinated, like, ‘We need to go back because there’s no way this is real, right?’” she told NBC. She lost her husband, Dan, in 2020 at the age of 32.“I know he would have loved to have been here for this moment.

We always talked about it being the Rockefeller Center tree. It’s so special that my family’s tree gets to be America’s — if not the world’s — Christmas tree,” she recalled. The tree was cut down on Thursday.Her son, Liam, too, was elated. “I’m excited that the whole world can see it,” the little one said. “Well, I cry at home in my living room when the tree is lit, so I’m probably going to be inconsolable that day, but it’s going to be great,” Judy added.Judy is planning to attend the official tree-lighting ceremony. On Saturday, the tree made its grand arrival at Rockefeller Center. It will be illuminated on December 3, decorated with more than 50,000 lights, and topped with a Swarovski crystal star before the official lighting. The arrival of the Christmas tree marks the beginning of the holiday season, winning the hearts of New Yorkers and visitors alike. The Christmas tree will remain on display until mid-January 2026.(Pic courtesy: AP/ Eduardo Munoz Alvarez)