Is Christmas in Rockefeller Center coming back?

Yes — Christmas in Rockefeller Center returns in 2026 on NBC. The special is scheduled to air on December 2, 2026, with the next episode set for that date. This annual event has been a holiday tradition since its debut in 1997, with the latest installment marking its 94th year.

Christmas in Rockefeller Center is a live television special that celebrates the lighting of the iconic Christmas tree in New York City. The show features performances by musical artists, festive displays, and the lighting ceremony, which takes place on the Wednesday evening following Thanksgiving. It has become a beloved holiday event that captures the spirit of the season and brings viewers together to kick off the festivities.

The show features hosts Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, Hoda Kotb, and Craig Melvin, along with announcer Les Marshak. It has a runtime of approximately 101 minutes. The event has consistently aired annually in December, with the 2026 edition scheduled for December 2.