CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is happening this Wednesday and the elaborate ceremony is one of the country's most beloved traditions.

But how did the dazzling tradition begin? Let's connect the dots.

It all started in 1931 during the Great Depression. Construction workers building Rockefeller Center pooled their money to buy a 20-foot tree. They decorated it with tin cans, cranberries and paper garland to bring some joy during tough times.

By 1933, Rockefeller Center made it official with a grand tree-lighting ceremony. Over the years, the tree grew taller, the decorations more elaborate and the lighting ceremonies more spectacular.

By 1950, the process required 20 full-time workers and nine days of preparation. The next year, NBC televised t

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