Christmas in Rockefeller Center: When and where to watch the celebration on TV and online

The holiday season in the United States officially begins as the 93rd edition of the Christmas in Rockefeller Center TV Special gets underway on Wednesday night. The annual lighting of the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, a tradition followed by millions worldwide, will once again be broadcast with an elaborate entertainment lineup and multiple online streaming options.

Hosted this year by noted singer and entertainer Reba McEntire, the two-hour programme brings together some of the most recognisable names in global music, setting the tone for the festive period. For viewers planning to watch the ceremony from home or on the move, several platforms have enabled convenient access, including options to watch the Christmas in Rockefeller Center online live without a cable subscription.

Star-Studded Performances Mark the 2025 Edition

The 2025 broadcast features an extensive list of performers, continuing its legacy of showcasing top-tier entertainment. The Radio City Rockettes, a signature act of the event, will return with their renowned precision choreography.


The lineup also includes artists such as Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, Kristin Chenoweth, Laufey, Brad Paisley, Gwen Stefani, Carly Pearce and New Edition. Together, they bring a mix of contemporary hits, classic holiday music and live stage spectacles that form the heart of the annual celebration.

The ceremony begins at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Wednesday, Dec. 3, airing from midtown Manhattan and simulcast across broadcaster NBC’s network, as per a report by The Hollywood Reporter.

Where to Watch on Television and Online

Since the Christmas in Rockefeller Center TV Special is telecast on NBC, it is accessible not only via traditional cable but also through several internet-based platforms. These include DirecTV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, Sling, and Peacock—NBCUniversal’s official streaming service.

Peacock will also simulcast the event, offering both ad-supported and ad-free subscription plans. For new subscribers, the Premium ad-free package is available at $10.99 per month, while the ad-supported tier costs $16.99 monthly.

Streaming Options with Free Trials

Several services are offering limited-period free trials, allowing viewers to watch the Christmas in Rockefeller Center online live at no cost.

• DirecTV: A five-day free trial grants access to more than 90 channels, including NBC. Monthly plans begin at $49.99 for the first month.
  
• Hulu + Live TV: A three-day trial is available. The platform includes Disney+ and ESPN Unlimited in its bundle, starting at $89.99 per month.
  
• Fubo: Offers a seven-day free trial and carries NBC along with over 215 other channels. Subscription for new users starts at $54.99 in the first month.
  
• Sling Blue: Provides NBC in select markets, with monthly pricing beginning at $50.99 depending on location.
  

These options ensure wide accessibility for households preferring cord-cutting over traditional cable viewing.

A Holiday Tradition Continues

With an expansive performance lineup, accessible streaming choices and the symbolic lighting of one of the world’s most famous Christmas trees, the 2025 edition reaffirms the cultural significance of the Rockefeller Center ceremony. For many viewers, the programme marks the unofficial start of the holiday season.

FAQs

What time does the 2025 ‘Christmas in Rockefeller Center’ TV Special air?

The programme airs on Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.

Can I watch the ceremony online without cable?

Yes. Platforms such as DirecTV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, Sling and Peacock offer online streaming options.