Reba McEntire to Host 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting: A Star-Studded Holiday Spectacle on NBC

In a festive announcement that has country music fans and holiday enthusiasts buzzing with excitement, country music legend Reba McEntire has been tapped to host the iconic 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting. This annual NBC holiday special, a cornerstone of American Christmas traditions, promises an unforgettable evening of music, lights, and joy as McEntire takes the reins for the first time in this legendary event.

The news, revealed earlier this week by NBCUniversal, underscores McEntire’s enduring appeal and her seamless fit for the holiday spotlight. Known for her powerhouse vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and charismatic stage presence, the 69-year-old entertainer—currently starring in her own sitcom Happy’s Place—will guide viewers through the ceremony set for December 4, 2025, at the heart of New York City’s Rockefeller Center. While the full lineup of musical guests remains under wraps, insiders hint at a diverse roster blending pop, country, and Broadway talents to complement McEntire’s signature style.

This hosting gig arrives at a pivotal moment for McEntire, whose career spans over four decades and includes 24 No. 1 hits, three Grammy Awards, and a Broadway stint in Annie Get Your Gun. Her selection signals NBC’s intent to infuse the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting with a warm, relatable energy, drawing on McEntire’s reputation as the “Queen of Country” to connect with audiences young and old. As the event approaches its 93rd year, McEntire’s involvement could boost viewership, which averaged 7.5 million viewers in recent years, according to Nielsen data.

Reba McEntire‘s Enduring Holiday Spirit and Career Milestones

Reba McEntire’s journey to hosting the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting is a testament to her deep-rooted connection to the holiday season and her multifaceted career. Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, in 1955, McEntire grew up in a musical family, performing in rodeos and local talent shows before signing her first record deal in 1975. Her breakthrough came with the 1977 hit “My Kind of Country,” but it was albums like Whoever’s in New Haven with Me (1984) and Read My Mind (1994) that catapulted her to superstardom, selling over 75 million records worldwide.

McEntire’s holiday affinity isn’t new; she’s released two Christmas albums, Merry Christmas with Love (1987) and The Secret of Giving: A Christmas Collection (1999), featuring classics like “O Holy Night” and originals that capture the warmth of the season. “The holidays have always been about family, faith, and giving back for me,” McEntire said in a statement released by her team. “Hosting the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting feels like coming home—it’s a chance to spread that joy to millions.”

Her acting prowess adds another layer to her hosting credentials. From a long-running role on The Voice as a coach to her portrayal of a bar owner in the upcoming NBC sitcom Happy’s Place, premiering in fall 2024, McEntire excels at engaging live audiences. The show’s pilot, which McEntire co-created and executive produces, draws on her real-life experiences running a family ranch, infusing humor and heart into narratives that resonate during the festive period. Critics praise her for blending vulnerability with strength, qualities that will shine during the high-energy tree lighting ceremony.

Statistically, McEntire’s influence is undeniable. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), she’s one of the best-selling female artists in history, with certifications for 48 million albums in the U.S. alone. Her 2019 Broadway revival of Reba: Not That I Recall one-woman show drew sold-out crowds, showcasing her storytelling chops. For the 2025 event, producers are eyeing her ability to improvise and connect, much like she did during her 2023 ACM Awards hosting, where she earned rave reviews for her witty banter and emotional depth.

Beyond music and TV, McEntire’s philanthropy ties into the holiday ethos. Through the Reba’s Ranch Foundation, she’s donated millions to children’s hospitals and disaster relief, often amplifying efforts during Christmas. In 2020, she partnered with Feeding America for a holiday drive that raised over $1 million. This giving spirit aligns perfectly with the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting’s tradition of charity, where proceeds from merchandise and broadcasts support organizations like Toys for Tots.

The Timeless Magic of Rockefeller Center’s Christmas Tree Tradition

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting stands as one of New York City’s most cherished holiday rituals, dating back to 1931 when workers decorated a modest balsam fir amid the Great Depression. What began as a morale booster has evolved into a global phenomenon, broadcast live on NBC since 1951 and reaching an estimated 50 million viewers annually through TV and streaming. For 2025, the tree—a towering Norway spruce sourced from a small American town—will be adorned with 50,000 multicolored lights and a Swarovski crystal star, weighing 900 pounds and sparkling with 3 million crystals.

Selecting the tree is no small feat. Each year, a team scouts locations across the U.S., prioritizing sustainability. The 2024 tree, a 75-foot specimen from Vestal, New York, was felled in November after standing for 80 years, symbolizing community sacrifice for joy. “It’s an honor to give our tree to the world,” said the property owner in a past interview. For 2025, rumors swirl around a potential tree from Pennsylvania or Maine, with NBC committing to eco-friendly practices like replanting saplings in the donor’s yard.

The ceremony itself is a whirlwind of performances, ice skating, and countdown magic. Past highlights include Mariah Carey’s 2018 “All I Want for Christmas Is You” performance and Idina Menzel belting “Let It Go” in 2014. The event draws 250,000 in-person spectators, transforming Midtown Manhattan into a winter wonderland with the famous Rink at Rockefeller Center buzzing below. Security is tight, with barricades and NYPD oversight, yet the atmosphere remains electric and inclusive.

Culturally, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting has influenced holiday media for decades. It’s inspired films like Home Alone 2 (1992), where the tree features prominently, and countless TV specials. Viewership peaked at 12.6 million in 2017 during a Kelly Clarkson-hosted edition, per Nielsen. Economically, it injects $150 million into NYC’s tourism sector annually, with hotels and shops reaping benefits from the influx of visitors. For locals, it’s a rite of passage; families pass down tickets like heirlooms, fostering generational bonds.

In the digital age, NBC enhances accessibility via Peacock streaming, where 2024’s event garnered 2 million on-demand views. Social media amplifies the reach—#RockefellerTree trended worldwide last year with 500,000 mentions. As climate concerns grow, the event’s producers have pledged carbon-neutral operations by 2025, using LED lights and electric vehicles for setup, aligning with broader sustainability goals.

Inside NBC’s Vision for a Reba-Infused 2025 Holiday Special

NBC’s decision to enlist Reba McEntire for the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting reflects a strategic pivot toward authentic, star-driven programming amid shifting viewer habits. The network, a holiday special powerhouse since airing the first televised tree lighting in 1951, aims to blend nostalgia with fresh appeal. “Reba brings an unmatched warmth that embodies the spirit of the season,” said Noah Oppenheim, president of NBC News and MSNBC, in an official release. “We’re thrilled to have her lead this iconic event.”

Production details are ramping up. The two-hour special, airing live at 8 p.m. ET on December 4, 2025, will feature high-definition cameras capturing every twinkling moment, from the tree’s illumination to backstage glimpses. Directors are planning innovative segments, like McEntire leading a sing-along of “Winter Wonderland” with surprise guests, potentially including cross-genre collaborations. Budget-wise, the event costs around $10 million annually, covering talent fees, lighting, and logistics, but it pays dividends in ad revenue—last year’s sponsors included Coca-Cola and Verizon, netting $20 million in spots.

McEntire’s preparation involves rehearsals at NBC’s 30 Rockefeller Plaza studios, where she’ll fine-tune her script with writers known for Saturday Night Live. Her Happy’s Place co-stars might make cameo appearances, tying the sitcom’s launch to the holiday buzz. “It’s all about creating memories,” McEntire shared on Instagram, posting a teaser photo of her in a festive red gown. The post garnered 1.2 million likes, signaling massive fan anticipation.

From a technical standpoint, NBC employs 20 cameras, including drones for aerial shots of the plaza’s 100-foot tree. Audio mixes live performances with a 50-piece orchestra, ensuring crystal-clear sound. Post-event, edited versions air on NBC affiliates, while international syndication reaches Europe and Asia via partnerships with BBC and NHK. Inclusivity is key; the special incorporates ASL interpreters and diverse performers, reflecting America’s mosaic.

Challenges abound—weather in early December can be fickle, with past events enduring rain or snow. Yet, redundancies like heated tents and backup generators keep things seamless. NBC’s track record shines: the 2023 special, hosted by Ariana DeBose, won an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special, highlighting the network’s production excellence.

Star-Studded Guests and Performances Set to Light Up the Night

While official announcements are pending, speculation is rife about the musical guests joining Reba McEntire at the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting. Drawing from NBC’s history, expect a mix of chart-toppers and holiday icons. Potential performers include rising country stars like Lainey Wilson, who collaborated with McEntire on a 2024 duet, or pop sensations such as Kelly Clarkson, a frequent holiday special alum. Broadway voices from Wicked—given its 2024 film buzz—could add theatrical flair, performing medleys of festive tunes.

The lineup’s diversity mirrors the event’s evolution. In 2022, Chloe x Halle and the Jonas Brothers brought Gen-Z energy, boosting younger viewership by 15%, per Nielsen. For 2025, producers are eyeing global acts; a K-pop group like BTS alumni or a Latin crossover artist could debut, expanding the audience. McEntire herself might duet on classics like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” her velvety voice pairing with emerging talents.

Non-musical elements will enhance the spectacle. The Radio City Rockettes, perennial favorites, plan precision kicks synced to holiday hits, their 36 dancers rehearsing for months. Ice skaters from the Rink will perform routines, possibly featuring Olympians like Nathan Chen. Celebrity appearances—think late-night hosts or sitcom stars—add levity, with scripted bits crafted by McEntire’s team.

Behind-the-scenes, talent coordination is meticulous. Agents negotiate slots months in advance, prioritizing acts that align with NBC’s brand. Past surprises, like John Legend’s 2021 family performance, humanize the event, emphasizing themes of togetherness post-pandemic. With McEntire at the helm, expect heartfelt moments, such as sharing stories from her Oklahoma Christmases or spotlighting fan-submitted videos.

Audience interaction via social media will be amplified. NBC’s app allows real-time polls and AR filters for virtual tree lighting, engaging 10 million users last year. This tech-savvy approach ensures the holiday special remains relevant in a streaming era, where 40% of viewers now watch via digital platforms.

Why Reba’s Hosting Could Redefine Holiday Traditions for Generations

As Reba McEntire steps into the glow of the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting, her role promises to reshape how families experience the holidays. In an era of fragmented media, this NBC event could serve as a unifying force, drawing cord-cutters back to live TV with McEntire’s magnetic pull. Projections suggest a 10-15% viewership uptick, potentially hitting 8.5 million live viewers, fueled by her 4 million social media followers sharing real-time reactions.

Culturally, McEntire’s hosting elevates country music’s holiday presence, traditionally dominated by pop and rock. This shift could inspire more genre-blending specials, benefiting artists like her Happy’s Place castmate Belissa Escobedo. For tourism, the event’s timing aligns with peak NYC visits, with 60 million annual tourists boosting local economies through holiday markets and shows.

Looking ahead, NBC plans to leverage the special for cross-promotions, tying it to McEntire’s sitcom and future tours. Sustainability initiatives, like partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation for tree donations, position the event as forward-thinking. Fans can anticipate ticket lotteries opening in September 2025, with virtual watch parties for remote audiences.

Ultimately, McEntire’s touch will infuse the ceremony with authentic joy, reminding viewers of the season’s core: connection. As she flips the switch on those 50,000 lights, it won’t just illuminate Rockefeller Center—it could spark a renewed appreciation for traditions that bind us, setting the stage for holiday specials to come.