Country music icon Reba McEntire stepped into uncharted holiday territory this year when she took the helm as host of the 2025 Christmas in Rockefeller Center television special.
A remarkable milestone marking her first-ever appearance leading the legendary tree-lighting ceremony in New York City.
Despite decades of experience in music, television, and Broadway, this was a new frontier for Reba, one that challenged her to blend her own signature style with the grandeur and spectacle of one of the nation’s most celebrated holiday traditions.
Fans and viewers alike watched eagerly as she took on the dual role of host and performer, seamlessly guiding the evening’s festivities while also delivering show-stopping musical moments.
A Winter Wonderland in Midtown: The Stage Is Set
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting was a sight to behold:
The centerpiece of the evening was a 75-foot Norway Spruce from East Greenbush, New York, carefully transported and installed in the heart of Rockefeller Plaza.
The tree was adorned with over 50,000 multicolored LED lights and crowned with a dazzling Swarovski star, creating a sparkling spectacle visible from blocks away.
Anticipation built throughout Midtown Manhattan as crowds gathered in the cold, their breath misting in the evening air, while festive music played over loudspeakers and vendors offered seasonal treats like hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts.
For viewers at home, the two-hour broadcast aired live on NBC and streamed simultaneously on Peacock, reaching millions across the country.
The production team spared no effort, using sweeping aerial shots, dramatic lighting, and close-ups to capture both the grand spectacle and the intimate moments of joy that unfolded onstage.
Reba McEntire Takes Center Stage: Host, Performer, and Holiday Ambassador
Stepping into the hosting role, Reba brought decades of experience and a genuine warmth to the broadcast:
She expressed excitement and humility in interviews, describing the honor of participating in a tradition she had long admired from afar.
“[It’s] my first Rockefeller Christmas,” she said, “and I’m thrilled to share it with everyone watching. The magic of this city at Christmas is unlike anything else.”
Though she has hosted and performed countless shows throughout her career, Reba admitted that balancing hosting duties while performing live for such a large audience was “a beautiful challenge,” adding to the special nature of the evening.
Her performances were a highlight of the night:
She opened the show with a swinging, jazz-infused rendition of Chuck Berry’s “Run Run Rudolph”, setting a lively, festive tone.
A heartfelt performance of “Let There Be Peace on Earth” followed, showcasing her signature country‑pop vocals and reminding viewers of the deeper meaning behind the season.
Later, she shared the stage with Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth for a nostalgic duet of “Silver Bells”, invoking memories of Reba’s earlier television appearances and holiday specials from the 1980s.
Her dual role as host and performer brought a sense of intimacy and timeless elegance to the broadcast, creating a welcoming atmosphere for viewers of all ages.
Star-Studded Lineup: From Country to Broadway, Pop to Holiday Classics
The 2025 special featured a dazzling array of performers, blending musical styles and generational appeal:
Michael Bublé, Halle Bailey, Gwen Stefani, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, and other artists lent their voices to the evening, creating a rich, multi-genre musical experience.
The iconic Radio City Rockettes appeared in a spectacular dance routine, celebrating their 100th anniversary and adding classic pageantry to the event.
From pop ballads to country classics, Broadway showstoppers, and seasonal favorites, the performances showcased the diversity and universality of holiday music — a key part of the Rockefeller Christmas tradition.
The variety of musical talent ensured that the broadcast resonated across demographics, offering something for everyone, from children experiencing their first Rockefeller tree lighting to lifelong fans of holiday pageantry.
Behind the Scenes: Reba’s Preparation and Dedication
What made this year particularly special was the level of preparation and heart Reba brought to the show:
Weeks before the broadcast, Reba worked closely with producers, choreographers, and musical directors to perfect her performances and transitions between hosting duties.
She participated in sound checks and rehearsals that ran late into the evenings, ensuring her vocals were pristine and her timing seamless with the show’s dynamic pacing.
During interviews, she shared that she took time to walk the Rockefeller Plaza area, soaking in the festive decorations and street-level excitement, grounding herself in the energy of the crowd she would later address on live television.
Her commitment ensured that every note, every word, and every gesture on stage reflected both professionalism and authentic holiday spirit.
The Heart of the Holiday: Connection, Tradition, and Joy
While the lights, music, and performances dazzled, the emotional resonance of the night was just as significant:
Reba’s warmth and charisma brought a human touch to the spectacle, reminding viewers that the holidays are about connection, love, and shared experience.
In an era when global challenges and social divisions often dominate the headlines, the event provided a collective celebration of hope, unity, and joy, offering audiences a momentary escape into the wonder of the season.
Social media reactions from fans reflected the impact of Reba’s presence, with viewers praising her as “authentic, heartfelt, and magical,” noting that her performances felt like a comforting holiday hug.
Why This Year’s Rockefeller Christmas Was Special
Reba’s Debut as Host — After decades of achievements in music and entertainment, leading the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting was a new milestone that highlighted her enduring relevance.
A Cross-Genre Celebration — Bringing together country, pop, and Broadway stars created a truly inclusive holiday experience.
Honoring Tradition While Embracing Modernity — Classic elements like the Rockettes, tree lighting, and festive songs were perfectly balanced with contemporary performances, keeping the tradition alive while feeling fresh.
Broad Reach — Millions watched the broadcast live and on streaming platforms, spreading holiday cheer nationwide.
A Night to Remember: Reba McEntire’s Legacy in the Making
Reba McEntire’s first year hosting Christmas in Rockefeller Center was more than a televised performance; it was a holiday milestone that showcased her versatility, grace, and deep understanding of what makes the season special.
She reminded audiences that holidays are about connection, nostalgia, and shared joy — not just spectacle.
Her debut brought music, warmth, and authenticity to the global stage, ensuring that 2025 would be remembered as a particularly magical Rockefeller Christmas.
For fans, newcomers, and fellow performers, Reba’s presence reinforced the enduring power of music and holiday traditions to unite people across generations, backgrounds, and genres.
As the towering Norway Spruce glittered, the Rockettes concluded their routines, and the city’s skyline shimmered under the December lights, one fact was clear:
Reba McEntire had not only hosted a show — she had helped define a Christmas moment that will be cherished for years to come.
Country music icon Reba McEntire stepped into uncharted holiday territory this year when she took the helm as host of the 2025 Christmas in Rockefeller Center television special.
A remarkable milestone marking her first-ever appearance leading the legendary tree-lighting ceremony in New York City.
Despite decades of experience in music, television, and Broadway, this was a new frontier for Reba, one that challenged her to blend her own signature style with the grandeur and spectacle of one of the nation’s most celebrated holiday traditions.
Fans and viewers alike watched eagerly as she took on the dual role of host and performer, seamlessly guiding the evening’s festivities while also delivering show-stopping musical moments.
A Winter Wonderland in Midtown: The Stage Is Set
The 2025 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting was a sight to behold:
The centerpiece of the evening was a 75-foot Norway Spruce from East Greenbush, New York, carefully transported and installed in the heart of Rockefeller Plaza.
The tree was adorned with over 50,000 multicolored LED lights and crowned with a dazzling Swarovski star, creating a sparkling spectacle visible from blocks away.
Anticipation built throughout Midtown Manhattan as crowds gathered in the cold, their breath misting in the evening air, while festive music played over loudspeakers and vendors offered seasonal treats like hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts.
For viewers at home, the two-hour broadcast aired live on NBC and streamed simultaneously on Peacock, reaching millions across the country.
The production team spared no effort, using sweeping aerial shots, dramatic lighting, and close-ups to capture both the grand spectacle and the intimate moments of joy that unfolded onstage.
Reba McEntire Takes Center Stage: Host, Performer, and Holiday Ambassador
Stepping into the hosting role, Reba brought decades of experience and a genuine warmth to the broadcast:
She expressed excitement and humility in interviews, describing the honor of participating in a tradition she had long admired from afar.
“[It’s] my first Rockefeller Christmas,” she said, “and I’m thrilled to share it with everyone watching. The magic of this city at Christmas is unlike anything else.”
Though she has hosted and performed countless shows throughout her career, Reba admitted that balancing hosting duties while performing live for such a large audience was “a beautiful challenge,” adding to the special nature of the evening.
Her performances were a highlight of the night:
She opened the show with a swinging, jazz-infused rendition of Chuck Berry’s “Run Run Rudolph”, setting a lively, festive tone.
A heartfelt performance of “Let There Be Peace on Earth” followed, showcasing her signature country‑pop vocals and reminding viewers of the deeper meaning behind the season.
Later, she shared the stage with Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth for a nostalgic duet of “Silver Bells”, invoking memories of Reba’s earlier television appearances and holiday specials from the 1980s.
Her dual role as host and performer brought a sense of intimacy and timeless elegance to the broadcast, creating a welcoming atmosphere for viewers of all ages.
Star-Studded Lineup: From Country to Broadway, Pop to Holiday Classics
The 2025 special featured a dazzling array of performers, blending musical styles and generational appeal:
Michael Bublé, Halle Bailey, Gwen Stefani, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, and other artists lent their voices to the evening, creating a rich, multi-genre musical experience.
The iconic Radio City Rockettes appeared in a spectacular dance routine, celebrating their 100th anniversary and adding classic pageantry to the event.
From pop ballads to country classics, Broadway showstoppers, and seasonal favorites, the performances showcased the diversity and universality of holiday music — a key part of the Rockefeller Christmas tradition.
The variety of musical talent ensured that the broadcast resonated across demographics, offering something for everyone, from children experiencing their first Rockefeller tree lighting to lifelong fans of holiday pageantry.
Behind the Scenes: Reba’s Preparation and Dedication
What made this year particularly special was the level of preparation and heart Reba brought to the show:
Weeks before the broadcast, Reba worked closely with producers, choreographers, and musical directors to perfect her performances and transitions between hosting duties.
She participated in sound checks and rehearsals that ran late into the evenings, ensuring her vocals were pristine and her timing seamless with the show’s dynamic pacing.
During interviews, she shared that she took time to walk the Rockefeller Plaza area, soaking in the festive decorations and street-level excitement, grounding herself in the energy of the crowd she would later address on live television.
Her commitment ensured that every note, every word, and every gesture on stage reflected both professionalism and authentic holiday spirit.
The Heart of the Holiday: Connection, Tradition, and Joy
While the lights, music, and performances dazzled, the emotional resonance of the night was just as significant:
Reba’s warmth and charisma brought a human touch to the spectacle, reminding viewers that the holidays are about connection, love, and shared experience.
In an era when global challenges and social divisions often dominate the headlines, the event provided a collective celebration of hope, unity, and joy, offering audiences a momentary escape into the wonder of the season.
Social media reactions from fans reflected the impact of Reba’s presence, with viewers praising her as “authentic, heartfelt, and magical,” noting that her performances felt like a comforting holiday hug.
Why This Year’s Rockefeller Christmas Was Special
Reba’s Debut as Host — After decades of achievements in music and entertainment, leading the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting was a new milestone that highlighted her enduring relevance.
A Cross-Genre Celebration — Bringing together country, pop, and Broadway stars created a truly inclusive holiday experience.
Honoring Tradition While Embracing Modernity — Classic elements like the Rockettes, tree lighting, and festive songs were perfectly balanced with contemporary performances, keeping the tradition alive while feeling fresh.
Broad Reach — Millions watched the broadcast live and on streaming platforms, spreading holiday cheer nationwide.
A Night to Remember: Reba McEntire’s Legacy in the Making
Reba McEntire’s first year hosting Christmas in Rockefeller Center was more than a televised performance; it was a holiday milestone that showcased her versatility, grace, and deep understanding of what makes the season special.
She reminded audiences that holidays are about connection, nostalgia, and shared joy — not just spectacle.
Her debut brought music, warmth, and authenticity to the global stage, ensuring that 2025 would be remembered as a particularly magical Rockefeller Christmas.
For fans, newcomers, and fellow performers, Reba’s presence reinforced the enduring power of music and holiday traditions to unite people across generations, backgrounds, and genres.
As the towering Norway Spruce glittered, the Rockettes concluded their routines, and the city’s skyline shimmered under the December lights, one fact was clear:
Reba McEntire had not only hosted a show — she had helped define a Christmas moment that will be cherished for years to come.