A massive Norway spruce tree is on its way to Rockefeller Center in New York City to be this year’s Christmas tree. The 74-foot-high tree was cut down in West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, and will be decorated with 50,000 lights and a Swarovski star crown. It will be on display until mid-January for all to enjoy.
The tree was donated by a family who owned it, and the decision to donate it was made after a heartfelt conversation with Erik Pauze, the head gardener for Rockefeller Center. Pauze had spotted the tree in 2020 and immediately knew it would be perfect for the holiday display. The family, who usually decorated the tree with Christmas lights, saw this as a way to honor their late loved one who passed away during the pandemic.
The tree has drawn a lot of attention in West Stockbridge, with locals and tourists coming to see it before it was cut down. One tourist couple from Denmark, Michael and Tania Hardinger, even made a special trip to see the tree before it was transported to New York. They are planning to come back to the city to see the tree at Rockefeller Center and do some Christmas shopping.
The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree tradition is a beloved one, and this year’s tree is sure to bring joy and holiday spirit to all who see it. The journey of the tree from a small town in Massachusetts to the bustling streets of New York City is a heartwarming story of community, generosity, and the holiday spirit.
