It’s Happening! East Greenbush Tree Begins Its Journey to Rockefeller Center
NYC's Christmas Tree Is From the Capital Region
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a breathtaking 75-foot Norway spruce, and it's coming straight from East Greenbush.
Every holiday season in New York City, one tree transforms Midtown Manhattan into a glowing symbol of joy and togetherness. Towering over Rockefeller Plaza, the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree isn’t just a decoration; it’s a moment of unity, wonder, and pride.
And this year, that pride runs right through the Capital Region.
A Tree With Roots in Family and Tradition
The tree was donated by the Russ family, who’ve called their East Greenbush property home for generations. For more than 60 years, that towering spruce has been part of their lives, serving as the backdrop for family photos, backyard celebrations, and holiday memories spanning decades.
“I’m excited to make more cherished memories with my family and childhood friends as it becomes the world’s Christmas tree,” said Judy Russ, who still lives in the historic family home with her 7-year-old son, Liam.
Now, that same tree will become the centerpiece of the most famous Christmas display on Earth, visited by millions in person and seen by even more on TV.
From East Greenbush to the Big Apple
The spruce is estimated to be about 75 years old and will be cut down on Thursday morning, marking the beginning of its 130-mile journey to Rockefeller Center.
A few hours after the cutting, the tree will be escorted from Old Red Mill Road, traveling south on State Route 4, then heading east on Routes 9 & 20, before entering I-90 at Exit 10 on its way to New York City.
The Town of East Greenbush is encouraging residents to come out and share in this once-in-a-lifetime moment of community pride. Locals are invited to line the route, wave, take photos, and help send off the Capital Region’s gift to the world.
Officials say updates on the exact departure time will be shared on the East Greenbush Police Department Facebook page, so neighbors can plan to catch the convoy as it rolls out.
A Capital Region Honor
It’s not every day that a tree from our backyard becomes the centerpiece of one of the world’s most beloved traditions. For the Russ family, it’s a moment of pride, connection, and community that will forever be part of Rockefeller Center’s storied history.
So this year, when the lights flicker on and the crowd in Manhattan cheers, remember: that glow started right here, in the Capital Region.