MIDTOWN, NY – It’s that time again: Rockefeller Center will hold its annual tree lighting ceremony Wednesday evening, an event that brings holiday cheer to some and logistical problems to others.

This year’s tree, a magnificent Norway spruce that was alive until recently, was taken from the Berkshires in Massachusetts – the first tree cut down by the state for the ceremony since 1959.

The Rockefeller Tree Tradition began in 1931 when workers pooled their money to purchase a tree and decorate it. The spectacle originated in 1951 when the lighting was televised on “The Kate Smith Show.” As the 1960s approached, workers began using scaffolding to decorate Christmas trees, a job that by then required 20 men and nine days of work.

Here’s how to watch

Tonight’s ceremony is a big affair, with pre-show coverage beginning at 6:30 p.m. on NBC New York. The best way to experience this is probably at home on the sofa, and the show actually starts at 8 p.m

If you want to attend, expect crowds, police barriers and the dreaded winter mix: Although temperatures are expected to be around 40 degrees – mild – rain and snow are forecast.

The tree stands above the Rockefeller Center ice rink between 49th and 50th Streets and Fifth and Sixth Avenues, near numerous subway stations.

Performers and pageantry

Kelly Clarkson, the star and singer who won “American Idol” in 2002, will host the ceremony, with artists including Jennifer Hudson, Coco Jones, the Backstreet Boys, Dan + Shay, Megan Hilty, RAYE, Little Big Town, Thalia, and the inimitable Radio City Rockettes.

Savannah Guthrie, Hoda Kotb, Al Roker and Craig Melvin are also on the program.

This is how you see the tree

Starting Wednesday, December 4th, the tree will be lit from 5 a.m. to midnight. It will be on display until mid-January before it is milled and made into lumber that will be donated to Habitat for Humanity.

Road closures

Road closures ahead of the lighting began on Monday and will continue until December 4th.

The following streets will be closed at the discretion of the NYPD:

• 46th Street to 52nd Street, between Fifth Avenue and Sixth Avenue
• Rockefeller Plaza, from 48th to 51st Streets
• Sixth Avenue between 46th Street and 52nd Street
• Fifth Avenue between 46th Street and 52nd Street

The following additional closures will apply on December 4th:

• Madison Avenue, from 42nd Street to 57th Street
• Sixth Avenue, from 42nd Street to 57th Street
• Fifth Avenue, from 42nd Street to 57th Street

Tuesday through Friday are Gridlock Alert Days, according to the DOT, meaning New Yorkers should avoid driving to Midtown and opt for public transportation when possible.