The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Has Arrived in New York City

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in New York City. The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is now ready to be lit, signaling the start of the holiday season. Here is a look at this year's massive tree, as well as how you can take part in its magic from near or far.

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Arrival Signals the Start of the Holiday Season

One of the most revered traditions of the holiday season is the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. That tradition is one step closer now that the official tree has arrived in the Big Apple. This year's tree is a 76-foot Norway spruce from West Edmeston, New York.

Police escorted the towering tree on Saturday. According to Rockefeller Center, this year's chosen tree weighs roughly 11 tons and measures 50 feet across. Property owner Rebecca Decker donated this year's beauty.

The process to identify and transport each year's tree starts years earlier. This year's tree was selected six years ago by Erik Pauze, head gardener for Rockefeller Center. Pauze identifies trees as they approach maximum height and become too large for their original property. They cut the tree down on Thursday, November 5. A large crane had to lift the tree and place it on a flatbed truck to make the 200-mile journey to Manhattan.

Video footage shows the NYPD Highway Unit escorting the tree to its resting spot in the middle of Manhattan. Rockefeller Center celebrated the centerpiece of its famous holiday display with a special Meet the Tree Day. Visitors were invited to take part in a variety of photo opportunities and activities for all ages.