Bryant Park Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Visitors gather to watch live ice performances and musical singing surrounding the rink. The ceremony culminates in the illumination of a 45-foot tree adorned with thousands of lights and oversized ornaments like glimmering pine cones and holiday bells. For those unable to attend the park in person, the celebration is also broadcast via a livestream.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Free admission; open to the public. Space is limited.
Hours
Event: 5:30pm. Entry begins at 3:30pm; seating begins at 3:30pm.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Midtown Manhattan
Food & Drink
The Lodge bar and food hall remains open all day during the event.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Dress warmly for the outdoor ceremony, as the event guidance recommends warm clothing.
- Use the bathroom and visit the Holiday Shops before claiming a spot, because there is no re-entry once the deck reaches capacity.
- Plan to enter on a first-come, first-served basis, since space is limited and the deck may reach capacity.
- Take the B, D, F, or M train to 42nd Street/Bryant Park, or the 7 train to 5th Avenue.
- If you cannot attend in person, use the event livestream instead.
Special Events & Promotions
- The in-person event is free and open to the public; entry is first come, first served, and space is limited.
- The event is also available by livestream.
- The Rink closes early on Tree Lighting day; public skating resumes after the show.
- The 2026 tree is described as 45 feet tall, with over 12,000 lights and 1,200 oversized ornaments.
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is admission free, and how does entry work?
The in-person ceremony is free and open to the public. Entry is first come, first served, space is limited, and deck capacity may be restricted.
What will I see during the ceremony?
The program includes performances on ice and singing, and the tree is decorated with lights and oversized ornaments.
Can I leave the deck and return?
There is no re-entry once the deck is at capacity, so use the bathroom and visit the Holiday Shops before claiming a spot.
Will food and drinks be available?
The Lodge bar and food hall remain open throughout the day.
Can I watch if I cannot attend in person, and what happens to skating?
A livestream is available for people who cannot attend in person. The rink closes early for the ceremony, and public skating resumes after the show.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.