Leslie Odom Jr., Rockettes perform at NYC Christmas tree lighting (15 images)

Crowds gathered at Rockefeller Center in New York City on Wednesday night for the 85th annual Christmas tree lighting. Performers included Gwen Stefani, Seal and the Radio City Rockettes. The tree will remain lit for viewing through January 7. Photos by John Angelillo/UPI

Leslie Odom Jr. performs before the Christmas tree is lit. The Broadway star welcomed his first child, Lucille Ruby, with wife Nicolette Robinson earlier this year.

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The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is a New York tradition dating back to 1931 when construction workers for the center put up a tree in the holiday spirit.

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The Radio City Rockettes' annual Christmas Spectacular is running through Jan. 2 of next year. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI

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The Radio City Rockettes' Christmas Spectacular has been a New York City tradition since its inception in 1933 and embraces both entertainment and a wholesome seasonal message in classic style.

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