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5 NYC tree-lighting ceremonies that aren’t Rockefeller Center
By
Hannah Frishberg
Published Dec 4, 2024
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Photo courtesy of Lott House
By
Hannah Frishberg
Published Dec 4, 2024
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The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree may have the most famous lighting ceremony in town, but the boroughs have an abundance of alternatives.
Those looking to attend a ceremony away from the mayhem of Midtown during the holiday season should consider these five local lightings instead.
Although they won’t be hosted by Kelly Clarkson like this year's Rockefeller Center event on Wednesday, they can offer community, calm and arguably an even more (if less glam) hefty heaping of holiday spirit.
Brooklyn: The Hendrick I. Lott House lighting
Brooklyn’s 300-year-old Lott House in Marine Park has been hosting an annual tree lighting for well over a decade.
“It started with our first caretaker, when she lived there, she on her own would put a tree out and then one year we were like, 'Come on, let's just randomly invite people,' and we did,” said Friends of the Lott House President Alyssa Loorya.
The local landmark will continue the tradition this year in a celebration that's set to include cookies and hot cocoa. As in years past, a Friends of the Lott House board member will dress up as Sinterklaas, the Dutch St. Nick. The free event is open to the public and does not require an RSVP.
It’s on Friday, Dec. 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. at 1940 East 36th St. and you can learn more here.
Sinterklaas attends last year's Lott House tree lighting.
Lott House
Manhattan: Historic Harlem Parks lighting
This lighting hosted by Friends of Morningside Park promises jazz, merriment, and seasonal treats and temporary tattoos, available while supplies last. The event starts at 4 p.m. and the tree will be lit at 6 p.m.
It’s on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 4-6 p.m. at West 123rd Street Picnic Area and Handball Courts and you can learn more here.
The Bronx: Little Italy lighting
Santa returns to the Bronx’s Arthur Avenue this Christmas. All are invited to come sing carols, enjoy Italian cookies and sip hot chocolate with him this Saturday at the borough’s Ciccarone Park. In addition to the sweet treats, there will also be a toy giveaway, presented in partnership with Children’s Cancer Society of America.
It’s on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 4-6 p.m. at Arthur Avenue & East 188th Street; more info here.
The Lott House tree lighting attracts a far less touristy and more local crowd than the Rockefeller Center lighting.
Lott House
Staten Island: Port North Shore Alliance lighting
Staten Island’s self-proclaimed “largest tree lighting” returns to the Port Richmond neighborhood this year.
In addition to a visit from Santa, the celebration — which is sponsored by local businesses and set to take place on a residential block next to a truck parts retailer — will also feature performances by local schools, food trucks, and of course the belle of the ball: the tree, which this year is a 48-foot spruce adorned with over 2,000 lights.
It’s on Saturday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. at 415 Port Richmond Ave. and additional information is available here.
Queens Borough Hall lighting
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards is hosting this tree lighting in the Kew Gardens neighborhood. The event promises attendees games, live performances by local students, festive treats and a toy giveaway. Guests are asked to RSVP at the event’s online form.
It’s on Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. at 120-55 Queens Blvd. in Kew Gardens.
Tagged
new york city
holiday
Hannah Frishberg
Hannah Frishberg covers New York City arts and culture. Got a tip? Email Hannah at [email protected].
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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