The holiday season arrived in full force as audiences tuned in to the 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting on December 3. Hosting NBC’s “Christmas in Rockefeller Center,” the country music icon Reba McEntire set the tone the moment she stepped onstage.
Reba McEntire Opens the Night With Sparkling ‘Run Rudolph Run‘
The “Voice” coach opened the show with a lively performance of “Run Rudolph Run.” Wearing an all-white outfit with a fur-lined coat and snowflake earrings, McEntire brought instant cheer to both the New York City crowd and viewers at home.
Her warm presence carried the night as she introduced a star lineup celebrating one of the most beloved holiday traditions in the country.
The evening also highlighted the biggest spectacle of all. This year’s Norway spruce, sourced from East Greenbush, New York, stands 75 feet tall and 45 feet wide. It is illuminated with 50,000 LED lights and topped with a 900-pound Swarovski star.
Reba McEntire Balances Hosting Duties With Her Run on ‘The Voice‘
GettyMcEntire’s performance comes during a busy stretch. She is currently a coach on season 28 of “The Voice,” which is nearing its finale. During this week’s Playoff episode, McEntire selected Aubrey Nicole as her finalist.
Her remaining three team members, Aaron Nichols, Peyton Kyle, and Ryan Mitchell, now look to America’s votes in hopes of reaching the Top 6.
NBCNichols is also her pick for the season’s new Mic Drop Button feature. He competes against coach selections from Michael Bublé, Niall Horan, and Snoop Dogg.
Fans have already cast their votes, and the winner will be announced on the December 8 episode. The prize is a performance slot at the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day.
The two-night finale airs December 15 and 16 and features appearances from Khalid and XG.
The Rockefeller Tree Lighting Continues Its Beloved Holiday Tradition
GettyFrom classic songs to new seasonal releases, this year’s “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” delivered something for everyone. McEntire’s joyful opening performance and the star-packed lineup made 2025’s celebration one of the most spirited yet.
With the season officially underway, the night offered a warm reminder of why the Rockefeller tree lighting remains one of the most cherished holiday traditions in the world.
A Star-Packed Lineup Delivers Holiday Classics and New Favorites
NBC’s annual special filled the stage with a wide range of performances from some of music’s biggest voices. Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, Kristin Chenoweth, Laufey, New Edition, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, and Gwen Stefani all delivered crowd-pleasing moments.
The Radio City Rockettes, celebrating their 100th anniversary, performed throughout the evening with their signature precision and holiday energy.
The night’s set list featured upbeat hits and timeless carols, including:
Gwen Stefani: “Shake the Snow Globe”
Reba McEntire: “Let There Be Peace on Earth”
Michael Bublé: “Holly Jolly Christmas”
Halle Bailey: “Last Christmas”
Marc Anthony: “Christmas Auld Lang Syne”
Brad Paisley: “The First Noel”
Laufey: “Christmas Magic”
Goldn’ Blues: “Joy to the World”
The Radio City Rockettes
New Edition: “Happy Holidays to You”
Reba McEntire: “Run Run Rudolph”
Michael Bublé and Carly Pearce: “Maybe This Christmas”
Marc Anthony: “Feliz Navidad”
Gwen Stefani: “Hot Cocoa”
New Edition: “It’s Christmas All Over The World”
Brad Paisley: “That Crazy Elf (On The Shelf)”
Laufey: “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”
Halle Bailey: “My Favorite Things”
Kristin Chenoweth: “Merry Christmas Darling”
Marc Anthony: “Vivir mi Vida”
Gwen Stefani: “You Make It Feel Like Christmas”
Laufey: “Santa Baby”
Radio City Rockettes
Halle Bailey: “Silent Night”
Reba McEntire and Kristin Chenoweth: “Silver Bells”
Brad Paisley: “A Marshmallow World”
Michael Bublé: “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas”
New Edition: “Give Love on Christmas Day”
With the season officially underway, the night offered a warm reminder of why the Rockefeller tree lighting remains one of the most cherished holiday traditions in the world.
