The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is on its way to Albany.
A mother from Brooklyn, Domonique Williams-Abbaker, illuminated the iconic 2025 Christmas tree for the last time in a small ceremony early Saturday morning, symbolizing the beginning of the tree’s new journey.
Williams-Abbaker is among a select few who will receive a piece of the enormous tree, standing at 74 feet 11 inches, to place in her new Habitat for Humanity home after returning to the metropolitan area this summer.
“It feels surreal. I had to shed a few tears,” she shared, her face reflecting the glow of the lights as she spoke.
“I’m looking at this tree right now, and it’s hard to believe that a part of it will be in my home.”
Next week, Williams-Abbaker will be moving into her Habitat for Humanity home in Albany with her husband and their five-month-old son. This new beginning is something she never really imagined before.
Having relocated from East New York to Albany a few years back, she was hit hard by the housing costs that felt even more burdensome than those in New York City.
To become part of her new community, she began volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and soon applied for a home through the nonprofit.
Within just a year—sooner than she expected—she got the fantastic news that she was chosen as a recipient.
“My friends call me the Man of Will. I made it happen. It hits close to home,” she said, working with the IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service.
“Now I can proudly say I can afford my own house. I’m married and a new mom. Knowing my baby will have his own room from the start is a big deal.”
Though plans are still forming about how the tree wood will be integrated into her home, Williams-Abbaker envisions it as a focal point.
“I want it to be near me. People come from far away to see this tree. I want them to know it’ll have a special place in my home. I can’t wait to show this off,” she mentioned excitedly.
At least seven other families in Albany will also benefit from a piece of the tree’s legacy, with Habitat for Humanity hoping to spread the joy even wider.
This marks the first time since the partnership between Rockefeller Center and Habitat for Humanity began in 2007 that a Christmas tree has been sent to Albany.
This particular spruce has a rich history, growing on a farm in Rensselaer County for 75 years before being donated by Judy Russ and her son, Liam, in memory of her late husband, Dan, who had long dreamed of seeing the tree light up New York City.
“It’s incredible to realize that their legacy not only brought joy during the holiday season but continues to bring happiness to Habitat families. We hope they understand the lasting impact they’ve made,” said Heritage Capital Region Executive Director Christine Schudde.
Calling the early morning tree-lighting a worthwhile experience, she reflected, “I just can’t believe how beautiful this tradition is and how much fun it is.”
While plans are still unfolding, Schudde hinted that the wood could be crafted into shelving, cabinets, or window treatments, once processed in New Jersey for drying and cleaning.
