PHOTOS: New York City lights the 50,000 bulbs of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree
On Wednesday night, thousands of New Yorkers flocked to see the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree light up for the first time this year.
The 82-foot tree arrived in Manhattan from upstate New York in November and it's illumination is the unofficial indication that it's Christmas time in New York City.
The nearly 90-year-old tree will be on display until mid-January, ABC7 reports.
Those who chose to tune into the ceremonial tree lighting from home watched performances from Alicia Keys, Gwen Stefani, Blake Shelton, and more, NBC reports.
NBC's "Christmas at
Rockefeller Center" special aired on Wednesday night with many celebrity
appearances – including a performance by Alicia Keys.
The tree may only be around for less than two months, but it still attracts around 500,000 visitors during its time lighting up the Rockefeller Center, according to a report from Habitat for Humanity.
Once the holiday season is over, the 14-ton tree will be milled into lumber and given to Habitat for Humanity, which provides homes for families in need, Associated Press reports.
