Touching Story Behind NYC’s Rockefeller Center Tree 2025
Judy and Dan Russ had always thought that the huge Norway spruce tree in their yard in upstate New York would be the best Christmas tree for Rockefeller Center.
The dream has come true, but it’s not all good news. Dan died in 2020 at the age of 32. The tree from the Russ’ home in East Greenbush will now be a memory of him when it shines brightly for millions of visitors during the holiday season.
Judy Russ Talks About The Dream Behind The Tree With Late Husband
Judy Russ told the ‘Today’ show correspondent that “As my husband has passed away, I know he would have loved to have been here for this moment,” she said, “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.”
On November 6, the Norway spruce tree that is 75 feet tall and served as a jungle gym for their 7-year-old son, Liam, was cut down. It arrived to its final destination on November 8th.
How the Russ’ Tree Was Chosen For This Spectacular Event
A relative of a family friend works at Rockefeller Center and was able to get a picture of the Russ family’s tree to the right people.
Erik Pauze, the head gardener at Rockefeller Center, came to see the tree in person and picked it to be the one that will be lit with more than 50,000 lights, and it was topped with a Swarovski star. Judy said, “I think I just hallucinated, like, ‘We need to go back because there’s no way this is real, right?'” When little Liam was told about the 50,000 lights, he was in awe. He said, “I’m excited that the whole world can see it”.
Special Time: Judy & Liam Will Be At The Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting
This year, Judy and little Liam will be at the official lighting ceremony on Wednesday, December 3rd, to show off their tree to the world. Judy grew up in New York City, so visiting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree was a yearly family tradition. “Spread joy, spread cheer, and love one another. Think of our family, think of my husband, think of us.” Judy said they’re just happy to share it with everyone.
What do you think about the special story behind the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree? Will you be traveling to see it for the December 3rd lighting or watching it live on the ‘Today’ show? Leave your thoughts on this special story in the comments below. Come back to TV SHOWS ACE for all of your spoiler & news updates.
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