A Socially Distanced Viewing of the Rockefeller Tree

Millions of unimpressed, pandemic weary Americans poorly received The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree for its “Charlie Brown” appearance upon its arrival from Oneonta, N.Y on Nov. 14.

The Norway spruce stood at 75 feet tall, 45 feet wide, and weighed 11 tons, but its barren bottom trunk and unappealing shape made it the subject of national ridicule. Twitter users even jumped to conspiracies saying that it was chosen to deter tourists from coming to the city during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, the newly-transformed tree is drawing long lines—(its branches only needed time to return to their natural position after being tightly bound for travel). Along with this adjustment, extra branches were added to make it more full-figured. The tree lighting ceremony was broadcasted on NBC at 9:45 p.m. on December 2.

More than 50,000 multi-colored LED lights adorn the tree, totaling five miles of wire. It is estimated that 125 million people visit the tree each year, but due to COVID-19, it is difficult to predict how many will visit this holiday season.

According to the Rockefeller Center website, the Rockefeller Center is utilizing a “live tree cam” as well as “virtual queuing” to control crowd numbers. Visitors are expected to wear masks at all times and follow social distancing precautions, including standing within six-foot diameter circle decals. Specially trained staff and the NYPD are present to ensure a safe experience. Once they are in the viewing-zone, guests have five minutes to take photos and enjoy the beloved holiday tree-dition.

CityNatalie LowinDecember 22, 2020city, natalie lowin, christmaas, christmas, Rockefeller Center, tree, COVID19, holiday, SecondaryFeature, Secondary Feature, secondary feature, coronavirus