The Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is a beloved holiday tradition in New York City, but few know the story behind selecting the towering evergreen that stands as a symbol of the season.
For over 40 years, Erik Pauze, the head gardener at Rockefeller Center, has been tasked with finding the perfect tree each year, the New York Post explained in an exclusive report.
His meticulous selection process spans six states, where he scouts up to 100 trees before settling on the one that will steal the spotlight in the heart of Manhattan.
This year’s chosen tree is a 74-foot-tall Norway Spruce from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts. It’s the first tree from the Bay State since 1959 and boasts an impressive 43-foot diameter. Pauze first spotted the tree in 2020 while scouting for another, and over the past four years, he kept an eye on it as it grew.
When the time was right, Pauze knew it was the one.
Each year, Pauze forms close bonds with the tree’s owners, ensuring that the tree is well cared for before it is cut down and transported. His dedication to the process has become a hallmark of the tree’s journey, making the selection not just about finding a tree but about creating lasting memories with the families who donate them.
For example, this year, Pauze spent time with Earl Albert and his family, even attending a local high school football game with them as they watched their tree prepare for its big moment.
The chosen tree must meet high standards — sturdy enough to withstand the weight of over 50,000 lights and large enough to fit the iconic plaza. But it’s also about aesthetics.
Pauze looks for symmetry, a full canopy, and overall beauty. After spending hours traveling and inspecting trees, Pauze knows when he’s found the right one. This year, he described the selected tree as “perfect.”
While Pauze’s work at Rockefeller Center is widely recognized, he’s also tasked with selecting a tree for his own home each holiday season. Though less publicized, his personal tree selection process is just as meticulous. He prefers a Fraser fir for its strong branches and long-lasting freshness, ensuring it remains vibrant well into the New Year.
This article was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence.