Reba McEntire to Host Rockefeller Tree Lighting as NBC Unveils a Jaw-Dropping Performer Lineup No One Expected to See Together.LC
The Rockefeller tree lighting announces a star-studded lineup as Reba McEntire gears up to host the iconic December 3 special on NBC. This 93rd annual celebration brings together over a dozen major musical performers for the most anticipated holiday broadcast of 2025. The two-hour live event promises an unforgettable evening of festive performances and the ceremonial lighting of the legendary 75-foot Norway Spruce.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Date & Time: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock
- Host: Reba McEntire, age 70, takes over from Kelly Clarkson as first-time host
- Performers: 10+ major artists including Gwen Stefani, Marc Anthony, Michael Bublé, and more
- Tree: 75-foot Norway Spruce from East Greenbush, New York stands at Rockefeller Center
Country Legend Reba Takes the Spotlight as Host
Reba McEntire officially steps into the hosting role for the Rockefeller tree lighting ceremony in December. The country music icon will helm the two-hour live broadcast from New York City, marking her debut as host of this beloved holiday tradition. McEntire replaces Kelly Clarkson, who hosted previous years of the special.
The 70-year-old performer brings decades of entertainment experience to the prestigious event. Beyond just hosting duties, Reba will perform throughout the evening alongside guest artists. Today show anchors Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, and Al Roker join the special for additional appearances during festivities.
Star-Studded Performer Lineup Unveiled for December 3
| Featured Performers | Performance Type |
| Gwen Stefani | Musical Performance |
| Marc Anthony | Musical Performance |
| Michael Bublé | Musical Performance |
| Brad Paisley, Laufey, Kristin Chenoweth | Musical Performances |
| Halle Bailey, New Edition, Carly Pearce | Musical Performances |
| Radio City Rockettes | Iconic Dance Performance |
NBC revealed the most impressive performer roster in recent memory for this year’s celebration. The network announced the complete lineup features over a dozen major musical acts across multiple genres. McEntire herself takes on dual duties as both host and performer throughout the evening’s program.
The lineup balances superstars from pop, country, Latin, and R&B categories. Gwen Stefani, Marc Anthony, and Michael Bublé anchor the main performances. Supporting acts include the legendary Radio City Rockettes, who deliver their signature spectacle alongside contemporary artists.
Holiday Special Airs Live from New York’s Most Iconic Location
The special event airs live on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 starting at 8 p.m. ET on both NBC and Peacock. The two-hour broadcast originates directly from Rockefeller Center in Manhattan. The ceremony runs from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET for in-person attendees, with the tree lighting typically occurring around the end of the broadcast.
The 75-foot Norway Spruce selected from East Greenbush, New York will take center stage for this 93rd annual tradition. The iconic tree has been featured as the centerpiece since the first lighting ceremony in 1933. Millions of television viewers across the country tune in annually to watch the ceremonial illumination occur.
“This year’s celebration brings together an incredible roster of talented performers for one unforgettable night of holiday entertainment.”
— NBC Entertainment, Official Statement
What Fans Can Expect from This Year’s Holiday Celebration
Holiday enthusiasts can anticipate a traditional two-hour program featuring back-to-back musical performances from December‘s most beloved entertainers. The special combines classic holiday songs with contemporary arrangements. Reba McEntire‘s hosting brings a personal touch and her signature charm to the proceedings.
For viewers unable to catch the live broadcast, Peacock provides streaming access on-demand after the initial air date. The show represents NBC‘s flagship holiday programming event each season. In-person attendees at Rockefeller Center can view the ceremony free of charge in the surrounding plazas, though premium VIP experiences start around $1,995 per person.
Does the 2025 Rockefeller tree lighting lineup appeal to holiday viewers?
The performer selection caters to diverse musical tastes across multiple generations. Gwen Stefani and Michael Bublé attract classic holiday music fans. Contemporary charts-toppers like Laufey engage younger audiences. Marc Anthony brings Latin flavor, while New Edition provides R&B representation.
Reba McEntire‘s hosting debut adds star power to the celebration. Her country music background offers representation for that passionate fanbase. The balanced mixture ensures something resonates with virtually every household tuning in. Holiday traditionalists and entertainment enthusiasts alike anticipate one of the year’s most-watched broadcast events on December 3.
Sources
- NBC – Official announcement and performer lineup confirmation
- People Magazine – Exclusive reveal and host announcement
- Billboard – Comprehensive performer roster details
Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.
