Reba McEntire Delivers Holiday Magic at the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

Country music icon Reba McEntire helped ring in the holiday season in spectacular fashion as she hosted the 93rd annual Christmas in Rockefeller Center celebration on Wednesday night (December 3). Not only did she guide the beloved televised event, she also graced the stage with festive performances that lit up New York City—right alongside the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree itself.

This year marked an unforgettable first for Reba:
She had never spent Christmastime in New York City until now.

And what a debut it was.

A Star-Studded Night in the Heart of Manhattan

The two-hour NBC special featured an incredible lineup of performers, including:

• Michael Bublé

• Halle Bailey

• Kristin Chenoweth

• Brad Paisley

• Carly Pearce

• Gwen Stefani

• And many more

Together, they helped build anticipation for the moment everyone was waiting for—the lighting of a 75-foot Norway Spruce, adorned with 50,000 LED lights and crowned with a shimmering Swarovski star.

But before the big countdown, Reba made sure the crowd—and millions watching at home—felt the spirit of the season.

Reba Performs Three Holiday Favorites

Reba McEntire has released three Christmas albums throughout her legendary career, giving her no shortage of festive hits to choose from. For this special evening, she selected two songs from her holiday catalog and a nostalgic classic with personal meaning.

1. “Run Run Rudolph”

Reba kicked off the night with a jazzy, energetic take on Chuck Berry’s 1958 Christmas hit. She had just released her rendition (along with “Let There Be Peace on Earth”) to streaming platforms days earlier—perfect timing for the holiday spotlight.

2. “Let There Be Peace on Earth”

Her second solo performance delivered the warmth and sincerity Reba fans cherish, filling Rockefeller Plaza with a message of hope and unity.

3. “Silver Bells” (with Kristin Chenoweth)

Later in the show, Reba joined forces with Broadway powerhouse Kristin Chenoweth for a nostalgic duet of “Silver Bells.” The performance held special meaning—Reba first sang the song with Bob Hope on his 1987 holiday television special.

Their harmonies, wrapped in holiday glow, created one of the night’s standout moments.

A Magical Night Reba Will Never Forget

Hosting one of the most cherished holiday events in America—and performing beneath one of the world’s most famous Christmas trees—was a first for Reba, but fans hope it won’t be her last. With her signature warmth, humor, and powerhouse vocals, she helped make the 93rd annual lighting ceremony one of the most memorable in recent years.