Rockefeller Center tree lighting to close New York City streets

Motorists heading into Manhattan on Wednesday for the annual Christmas tree lighting should steer clear of Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall starting midafternoon, the NYPD said.

In announcing street closures and security measures for the 7 p.m. ceremony at Rockefeller Center, police advised using mass transit and said spectators are prohibited from bringing umbrellas, backpacks and large bags.

From about 3 p.m. to the end of the event, streets closed include: 48th, 49th, 50th and 51st streets between Fifth and Sixth avenues, police said.

Parking restrictions also will be enforced on Sixth Avenue and 48th, 49th, 50th and 51st streets; and 51st Street between Sixth and Seventh avenues.

Parking regulations, such as no parking by fire hydrants and crosswalks, will also be enforced.