Kane Brown Brings Country Soul to New York: Hosting NBC’s 2025 Christmas in Rockefeller Center
New York City is about to shine brighter than ever this holiday season. NBC has officially announced that Kane Brown, one of country music’s biggest and most dynamic stars, will host and headline the 2025 “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” broadcast. The annual tree-lighting ceremony — a tradition beloved by millions — promises to become the most electrifying Christmas special in recent memory.
As the chill of winter begins to creep into Manhattan, anticipation is already building. Beneath the towering Norway spruce and 50,000 sparkling lights, Brown will bring his unmistakable blend of southern grit, heartfelt storytelling, and crossover charisma to one of television’s most iconic stages.
“Christmas in New York is larger than life,” Brown said in a statement. “And sharing that joy through music — that’s the kind of magic that reminds you what the holidays are about: connection, hope, and giving.”
A Tradition Reimagined
For more than nine decades, the Rockefeller Center tree lighting has marked the official start of the holiday season in New York. Families, tourists, and millions of TV viewers around the world tune in to witness the moment the city’s most famous tree bursts into light. But this year, NBC producers promise a refreshed take — one that pairs timeless Christmas warmth with the energy and heart of a new generation.
Kane Brown, known for breaking musical boundaries, is a fitting choice to lead the celebration. His performances often weave country, R&B, and pop influences into something uniquely his own. The result is an artist who can move effortlessly from soulful ballads to high-energy anthems — exactly the kind of range needed for a holiday spectacular of this scale.
Music Meets Meaning
Brown’s appearance isn’t just about entertainment. The 2025 special will spotlight stories of courage, kindness, and community from across the United States — from children’s hospitals to hometown heroes — illustrating the spirit of giving that defines the season.
NBC representatives describe the program as “a vibrant celebration of unity, generosity, and holiday wonder.” Brown, who has long been committed to philanthropy, will highlight causes close to his heart, including youth education, veterans’ support, and family aid initiatives.
In doing so, he hopes to remind audiences that while Christmas lights may dazzle the skyline, it’s the light within people that truly shines brightest.
A Star-Studded Night in New York
Alongside Brown’s performance, viewers can expect a glittering lineup of guest artists and surprise collaborations that span genres and generations. While NBC has yet to reveal the full roster, insiders suggest appearances from both chart-topping pop icons and classic holiday voices.
The show will culminate in a grand live finale under the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, bringing together performers, the crowd, and millions of viewers in a unified moment of joy. Fireworks, carols, and snow effects are all expected to play a part in what producers are calling “a night of heart, harmony, and hope.”
The Spirit of the City
New York during December is pure magic — from the ice rink at Rockefeller Plaza to the glowing storefronts of Fifth Avenue. For Kane Brown, the city’s energy provides the perfect backdrop for a performance meant to uplift and unite.
“Performing in Rockefeller Center is more than a dream,” Brown shared in an interview. “It’s a way to bring people together — to remind us that even when the world feels divided, music can still connect us all.”
Indeed, this year’s event feels especially timely. After years of global uncertainty and change, the chance to celebrate together — whether in person or through the screen — offers a much-needed sense of comfort and renewal.
A Legacy of Light
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree tradition dates back to 1931, when construction workers first erected a small tree to lift spirits during the Great Depression. Since then, the ceremony has evolved into a symbol of unity and resilience — a moment when millions pause to share in something joyful and enduring.
By choosing Kane Brown to lead the 2025 broadcast, NBC seems to be bridging past and future: honoring tradition while embracing a modern, inclusive spirit. Brown represents not only country music’s new frontier but also the values of authenticity and compassion that the holiday embodies.
When and How to Watch
The live “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” special will air Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. The broadcast will feature live performances, celebrity appearances, and the ceremonial lighting of the world-famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree — expected to glow with more than 50,000 LED lights and topped by a Swarovski crystal star.
For those lucky enough to be in New York, attending the tree lighting in person is free, though space fills quickly. The event typically draws thousands of visitors, transforming Rockefeller Plaza into a sea of scarves, cocoa cups, and joyful voices singing along.
A Holiday to Remember
As the countdown to December 3 begins, the excitement around Kane Brown’s hosting debut continues to build. Whether you’re a country fan, a city-dweller, or simply someone who loves the sparkle of the season, this year’s Christmas in Rockefeller Center promises to deliver something special: a celebration of light, music, and togetherness that captures the very essence of Christmas.
In a year that’s been defined by change, Kane Brown’s message feels just right:
“No matter where you’re from or what you’re going through,” he said, “the holidays remind us that we’re all connected — by love, by music, and by hope.”
So mark your calendar. When the lights flicker on this December, and Kane Brown’s voice echoes through New York City, the holiday magic will officially begin.
