The tree lighting in Rockefeller Center is not just a tourist attraction or a television special on NBC, but an event that brings back classic romance.
On December 2, at 8:55 p.m. the lighting of the 76-foot tree brought tens of thousands people to the Big Apple.
“The tree lighting is similar to the ball dropping on New Year’s,” said New Yorker Maya Frid, 20. “There’s just something about all the lights and the cheesy music that makes me feel mushy.”
Wet and overcrowded streets blocked off by an excessive amount of barricades did not stop couples from interlocking hands and making their way through the madness.
The holiday spirit was apparent through kisses and tight embracing of couples of all ages.
“Once they counted down and lit the tree, my natural reaction was to kiss my girl,” said Angelo Gonzalez, 40. “It’s been embedded in me, I hear a countdown and I get ready to give her a smooch.”
To some, the tree lighting ceremony represents a significant step closer into the new year but to the romantics, it’s a a perfect scenery for a date that comes once a year.
“My boyfriend and I have been together for 4 years now,”said college student Angelica Kalliangas,22. “We went to the tree lighting every year so far. It’s the perfect combination of lights, live music and food. Oh..and him.”