The snow hasn’t even touched the ground yet — but Christmas just came early.
Moments ago, NBC confirmed what fans across the nation have been hoping for: John Foster, the fast-rising voice of modern country music, will officially host the 2025 “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” special — marking his first time ever leading America’s most beloved holiday celebration.
Set beneath the twinkling glow of New York’s most iconic Christmas tree, this year’s special promises to be more than just a show. It’s shaping up to be a celebration of heart, home, and hope — the kind of magical broadcast that reminds the world why Christmas is not just a season, but a feeling.
A COUNTRY HEART IN THE CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS
For John Foster, the announcement marks another stunning milestone in what’s already been a breakthrough year. From his chart-topping single “Stay With Us” to his emotional performance of “Amazing Grace” that went viral across social media, Foster has become a beacon of authenticity in an industry often chasing trends.
Now, he’ll bring that same sincerity to the biggest holiday stage in America: Rockefeller Center, where generations have gathered — in person and on screen — to watch the lighting of the 80-foot Norway spruce.
“New York in December feels alive,” John said in a statement released by NBC. “This isn’t just about lighting a tree — it’s about lighting hearts.”
That quote alone has already spread across fan pages and news outlets, symbolizing the spirit Foster hopes to capture in this year’s show — one rooted in gratitude, generosity, and connection.
A NIGHT OF LEGENDS, LOVE, AND LIGHTS
According to production insiders, the 2025 special will feature an unprecedented mix of performers spanning genres and generations — from pop icons to gospel choirs, and of course, some of the biggest names in country music joining Foster on stage.
While the full lineup remains under wraps, early reports suggest appearances from Carrie Underwood, Dolly Parton, Steven Tyler, and Kelly Clarkson, along with several surprise duets that producers are calling “once-in-a-lifetime collaborations.”
“John brings a warmth that bridges audiences,” said executive producer Erica Lafferty. “He represents the kind of real, grounded artistry we wanted to lead this year’s show — someone who reminds us that Christmas isn’t about extravagance. It’s about emotion, tradition, and unity.”
The special will be filmed live from Rockefeller Plaza in the heart of Manhattan, featuring the lighting of the 50,000 sparkling LED lights adorning the tree — powered entirely by renewable energy for the 13th consecutive year.
As always, the event will include appearances from the Radio City Rockettes, the New York City Children’s Choir, and the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, ensuring that the night carries both the glamour of show business and the heart of giving back.
FROM OKLAHOMA ROOTS TO ROCKEFELLER HEIGHTS
It’s a long way from Ada, Oklahoma, where John Foster first began singing hymns in his small-town church, to the dazzling skyline of New York City. Yet, that humble foundation is exactly what gives his artistry its power.
Those close to Foster say he intends to make this year’s special deeply personal — blending traditional carols with storytelling moments that reflect on his upbringing, faith, and family.
“He told us he wants the night to feel like a front-porch Christmas — just bigger,” one insider laughed. “Expect guitars, candles, maybe even a little snow falling on stage.”
In keeping with that spirit, Foster will reportedly perform a heartfelt rendition of “Silent Night” in honor of his late grandmother — the woman who first taught him to play guitar — followed by a rousing, full-band finale of his original song “Home for the Light.”
BEHIND THE SCENES: BUILDING THE SHOW
Preparations for the Rockefeller special began months in advance, with crews working around the clock to design what NBC executives are calling “a winter wonderland reborn.”
The stage will be transformed into a 360-degree immersive experience, featuring LED snowfall effects, live orchestration, and a rotating stage that allows performers to sing while surrounded by the New York skyline.
According to insiders, John has been deeply involved in the creative process — personally meeting with the show’s designers and even contributing ideas for the visual transitions between songs.
“He’s got this rare ability to make big productions feel intimate,” said lighting director Javier Morales. “When he performs, even a crowd of millions feels like a campfire circle.”
THE MESSAGE BEHIND THE MUSIC
Foster’s selection as host isn’t just a career move — it’s a statement.
In an era where holiday specials often chase spectacle over sincerity, John’s approach offers something refreshingly different: a reminder that kindness, faith, and family are still the truest gifts of all.
“John represents a new generation of artists who lead with heart,” said NBC programming chief Susan Rotenberg. “He’s the kind of performer who doesn’t just entertain — he uplifts.”
Foster himself echoed that sentiment in a behind-the-scenes interview shared on NBC’s social media:
“I grew up watching this show every December, dreaming of what it would feel like to be there one day. But now that it’s real, I don’t want to make it about me. I want every person watching — whether they’re in Times Square or sitting at home with cocoa — to feel like they’re part of something good again.”
Those words capture what so many fans already love about John Foster: a quiet humility that grounds even his biggest achievements in gratitude.
A STAR RISING AT THE RIGHT TIME
This announcement caps off a remarkable 2025 for Foster. His sophomore album “Faith in the Fire” debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Albums chart, he performed alongside Willie Nelson during the “One Last Ride” tribute concert, and he’s currently developing his first scripted Netflix series, “John Foster: The Last Dreamer.”
Critics have praised his unique blend of country, gospel, and Americana as “the sound of a new era” — one where traditional values meet modern storytelling.
Hosting “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” feels like a natural extension of that journey — a merging of his artistry with the national stage.
WHEN AND WHERE TO WATCH
The live broadcast of “Christmas in Rockefeller Center 2025” airs Wednesday, December 3 at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT on NBC and Peacock, marking the show’s 93rd anniversary since its first airing in 1933.
Fans can also stream exclusive backstage footage, interviews, and performances on Peacock immediately following the live broadcast, including a behind-the-scenes segment titled “Foster at the Fountain.”
A NIGHT THAT PROMISES TO BRING US TOGETHER
As America prepares for the holiday season, few moments unite the nation like the lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. It’s the signal that the year’s hardships can give way — even if just for a night — to music, laughter, and shared joy.
And this year, under John Foster’s guidance, that joy might just shine a little brighter.
From the snowy sidewalks of Fifth Avenue to small-town porches across the heartland, millions will tune in not only for the performances — but for the spirit of the season: the faith that no matter how divided or distant the world feels, light always finds its way home.
As Foster himself said softly in the show’s promotional trailer, staring up at the towering Christmas tree now being assembled:
“The lights don’t just sparkle — they remind us we’re still connected. Every one of them is a prayer, a wish, a heartbeat.”
And with that, the countdown begins.
“CHRISTMAS IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER 2025”
Hosted by John Foster
Airs Wednesday, December 3 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock
A night of music, miracles, and meaning — because this year, the brightest light might just come from the heart.
