
Reba McEntire Lights Up Rockefeller Center — A Night of Music, Joy, and Christmas Magic
Cheering crowds packed Rockefeller Center on December 3, filling the heart of New York City with excitement as Reba McEntire — the beloved musician, actress, and longtime holiday favorite — stepped onto the stage to host the annual lighting of the city’s iconic Christmas tree. The moment carried all the sparkle and warmth fans have come to expect from Reba, blending festive celebration with the unmistakable charm that has defined her career for more than four decades.
The air was crisp, the plaza glowing with anticipation, and thousands of spectators gathered shoulder to shoulder beneath the towering Norway spruce. As the cameras rolled and the lights of Midtown shimmered behind her, Reba took the microphone with her familiar smile, greeting the crowd as though she were welcoming old friends into her living room. Her presence felt natural, warm, and comforting — the kind of hosting style that makes an event feel bigger, brighter, and more personal all at once.
Throughout the evening, Reba guided viewers through a lineup of musical performances, heartwarming stories, and festive traditions. Her own holiday songs, delivered with that unmistakable Oklahoma twang and emotional depth, brought a wave of nostalgia to the night. Whether she was singing a classic carol or introducing another act, she carried the show with grace and ease, proving once again why she remains one of America’s most trusted and beloved entertainers.
Families waved, children danced, and visitors from around the world soaked in the timeless New York tradition. The Rockefeller tree — a symbol of hope and togetherness for more than eight decades — stood tall behind her, wrapped in miles of lights and crowned with a stunning Swarovski star. With each passing moment, the excitement grew.
And finally, when Reba led the countdown — “Three… two… one!” — the entire plaza erupted as the tree burst into full brilliance, illuminating the night sky with a dazzling display of more than 50,000 lights. Applause, cheers, and holiday music filled the air, echoing between the skyscrapers and reminding everyone why this ceremony remains one of the season’s most cherished traditions.
As the celebration continued, Reba offered heartfelt reflections on the meaning of Christmas: gratitude, togetherness, and the importance of kindness, especially in challenging times. Her words resonated with both the crowd and viewers at home, bringing an emotional depth to an evening that was already filled with joy.
The 2025 Rockefeller Christmas Tree Lighting, led by Reba McEntire, was not just a ceremony — it was a reminder of the magic that happens when music, tradition, and community come together. Under the sparkle of the city lights and the warmth of Reba’s voice, the night captured the very spirit of the holiday season.