The holidays are about to sparkle brighter than ever — because Julianne Hough, the Emmy-winning dancer, singer, and “Dancing with the Stars” icon, is set to bring her signature mix of grace, heart, and festive spirit to NBC’s annual “Christmas at Rockefeller Center” celebration this December.

Known for her radiant energy and deeply emotional performances, Hough will deliver an exclusive live holiday dance performance on one of the most iconic stages in the world — Rockefeller Center in New York City, where generations have gathered to watch the famous Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

And this year, with snowflakes in the air, twinkling lights surrounding her, and live orchestral music filling the night, Julianne promises to make it a holiday memory that audiences will never forget.

✨ A Star Returns to the Stage — and to the Season of Joy

For millions, the Christmas season at Rockefeller Center represents more than just a show — it’s a feeling. It’s the magic of family, love, and togetherness wrapped in light and song. And Julianne Hough, known for her warmth both on and off stage, embodies all of that and more.

Her upcoming performance — titled “A Dance for Christmas” — will blend classic elegance with soulful storytelling, designed to remind audiences of the deeper spirit of the holidays. Sources close to the production describe it as “a moving fusion of dance, light, and emotion” that captures both nostalgia and joy.

“This performance is about connection,” Hough shared in a recent interview. “It’s about remembering that no matter where we are or what we’re going through, the holiday season has this incredible way of bringing people together — and I wanted to honor that through movement.”

Her words perfectly sum up her artistry: a performer who doesn’t just move to music, but moves hearts.

💃 A Legacy of Movement and Emotion

Julianne Hough’s journey from Utah to Hollywood is the stuff of dreams — but it’s her sincerity, not just her success, that has made her one of America’s most beloved entertainers. From her breakout on Dancing with the Stars (where she became a two-time champion) to her Emmy-winning choreography and her work as a judge, singer, and actress, Hough has spent her life telling stories through art.

But for her, dance has always been something more than performance — it’s a form of expression that connects body, heart, and soul.

“In every dance I do,” she said, “there’s a message. This one — for Christmas — is about love. The kind that shows up quietly, the kind that heals, the kind that reminds you you’re never alone.”

Her holiday number is expected to include a medley of classic Christmas songs reimagined with cinematic orchestration — and a touch of Broadway theatricality. Rehearsals, according to insiders, have been nothing short of breathtaking.

🎄 The Magic of Rockefeller Center

The Rockefeller Center Christmas celebration has become one of America’s most treasured annual traditions. Millions tune in every year to watch as stars from around the world gather beneath the towering Christmas tree, its more than 50,000 lights reflecting the spirit of the season.

This year, producers wanted to add something “deeply emotional and visually unforgettable” — and Julianne Hough was the perfect choice.

“Julianne brings a light that can’t be faked,” one executive producer said. “She has this rare ability to make a moment feel personal, even when you’re watching it from across the country. We knew immediately that she was the heart of this year’s show.”

The performance will take place outdoors, under the glow of the famous tree, surrounded by softly falling snow and a live orchestra. Hough will dance to a newly arranged version of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, choreographed by her longtime creative partner, and accompanied by a 30-piece symphonic ensemble.

“It’s about celebrating togetherness and gratitude,” she explained. “There’s something about being in the middle of New York at Christmas — the lights, the music, the people — that just makes you feel alive.”

🌟 A Moment of Hope and Harmony

While the production is expected to be visually stunning, Hough says it’s the emotion that matters most. “I want people to feel peace,” she said simply. “This time of year can be beautiful, but it can also be hard for some. I want to create something that reminds people that there’s always light — even in the darkest seasons.”

Her performance will also feature a brief monologue about kindness, community, and hope — themes that have defined her personal and professional philosophy for years.

“She has this gift,” said a close friend. “When Julianne performs, it’s not about showing off. It’s about sharing love.”

❄️ Fans Already Can’t Wait

Since NBC announced her appearance, social media has been buzzing. Fans flooded Instagram and X with excitement, calling the news “the perfect Christmas surprise.” One tweet read:

“Julianne Hough dancing at Rockefeller Center is the definition of holiday magic!”

Others shared memories of her past performances on Dancing with the Stars, praising her ability to blend technical perfection with raw emotion.

“She makes you feel every note of the music,” one fan wrote. “If anyone can bring Christmas to life through dance — it’s Julianne.”

💫 The Spirit of the Season, Through Movement

As snow begins to fall over New York and the Rockefeller tree lights prepare to glow once again, there’s a sense of anticipation in the air — a collective yearning for joy, beauty, and connection.

Julianne Hough’s upcoming holiday performance promises all of that and more.

“It’s not just about dancing,” she said. “It’s about creating a moment that feels like love — something people can carry with them long after the holidays are over.”

And with that, she smiled — the kind of smile that seems to hold both excitement and gratitude — and you could almost see it:

The stage lights gleaming, the snow swirling, and Julianne moving like poetry against the golden backdrop of Christmas at Rockefeller Center.

🎁 “Christmas at Rockefeller Center featuring Julianne Hough: Live Holiday Dance Performance 2025” airs this December on NBC — a celebration of love, light, and the magic of movement.