Reba-McEntire-Christmas-in-Rockefeller — Get the full schedule and star-studded details!
Written by Amanda Tempel
Originally Published: December 3, 2025

You’ll find your favorite country stars spreading the Christmas cheer on NBC this holiday season! Two specials, “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” and “Christmas in Nashville” feature country music's biggest names like Reba McEntire and Trisha Yearwood. Find out when and where to watch!

Christmas in Rockefeller Center TV Special

On Wednesday, December 3, NBC will celebrate the holiday season with the annual lighting of one of the world’s most famous trees in the heart of New York City. “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” airs live 8 pm ET on NBC and simulcast on Peacock.

Country music icon Reba McEntire will make her debut as host of this year’s special. In addition to her hosting duties, she will treat viewers to joyful performances throughout the evening from historic Rockefeller Center. McEntire currently stars on season 28 of NBC’s “The Voice” as well as the hit comedy “Happy’s Place,” currently in its second season.

Other performers for the Christmas in Rockefeller Center TV special include:

Marc Anthony

Halle Bailey

Michael Bublé

Kristin Chenoweth

Laufey

New Edition

Brad Paisley

Carly Pearce

Radio City Rockettes

Gwen Stefani

“The lighting of the tree at Rockefeller Center is one of the great traditions that New York has to offer, and we couldn’t be more proud to once again share that excitement with audiences all over the country,” said Jen Neal, Executive Vice President, Live Events and Specials, NBCUniversal Entertainment. “We’re so looking forward to seeing Reba bring her infectious energy to the telecast and create an unforgettable holiday moment.”

The tradition of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree dates back more than 90 years to 1931 during the Great Depression. The first official tree-lighting ceremony occurred two years later in 1933 in front of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, the then eight-month-old RCA Building (the current Comcast Building). The Christmas tree gathering was enhanced in 1936 with the opening of the Rink at Rockefeller Center. NBC-TV televised the tree lighting for the first time in 1951 on “The Kate Smith Show” and as part of the nationwide “Howdy Doody” television show from 1953-55.

The annual holiday special will celebrate the lighting of a 75-foot tall, 45-foot-wide Norway Spruce from East Greenbush, NY. The tree weighs approximately 11 tons, will be adorned with more than 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and topped with a three-dimensional Swarovski star.

The festivities don’t stop there; stay tuned to “Christmas in Nashville,” immediately following the program.

“Christmas In Nashville” TV Special

Hosted by Trisha Yearwood, “Christmas in Nashville” airs December 3 at 10:00 PM ET on NBC. The hourlong after-party celebration spotlights the best of Music City with standout performances from top Nashville talent. Filmed at Category 10 in downtown Nashville, the special will also be available to stream the following day on Peacock.

Performers for Christmas in Nashville:

Trisha Yearwood

Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers

Lauren Alaina

NE-YO

The War and Treaty

Trace Adkins

Whether you’re tuning in for the legendary tree lighting or the Nashville after-party celebration, NBC’s holiday specials offer the perfect way to kick off your Christmas season!

Blog