This year's Rockefeller Center Christmas tree is getting ready to leave its root in State College and is headed to New York City. On Thursday morning, Rockefeller Center's gardeners and staff cut the 75-foot-tall Norway Spruce from its home on Pikeview Road. The 12-ton giant was carefully lifted and placed on a truck, waiting to begin its journey.
Erik Pauze, head gardener for Rockefeller Center, said he caught sight of the tree back in 2010, when he was in town attending a high school football game. The tree was in full, good shape, but a bit short - 65 feet - at the time. Pauze said he spent the last few years grooming and caring for the tree.
“This one I found seven years ago, I kept an eye on it. Just waited for it to be perfect to use for Rockefeller Center,” Pauze said.
Jason Perrin donated the tree. He said he’s happy to see a tree representing State College will bring joy to many people.
The tree, the 86th to adorn the Rockefeller Center, will arrive in New York this Saturday. It will be decorated with over 50,000 lights and a Swarovski star for the lighting ceremony on November 29 and remain on display until January 7.
