Local Youth Choirs Invited To Enter 'Star Contest' To Perform On Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Broadcast

Applications are open for youth groups seeking a spot on NBC's famed broadcast that kicks off the holiday season.

By Jeff Edwards, Patch Staff

Sep 15, 2026 1:13 PM EDT

Groups are asked to submit a video performance of any holiday-themed song that is up to three minutes long. (Jeff Edwards/Patch)

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — Local singers have a chance to fill children's heads around the world with visions of sugarplums.

Youth singing groups across the New York area are being invited to apply for NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47's annual Star Choir contest, which offers the winner a chance to perform during NBC's "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" broadcast on Wednesday, Dec. 2.

"We are thrilled to offer this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to a remarkable group of young singers in our community," said Eric Lerner, President and General Manager of NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47. "Our 'Star Choir' performers have been inspiring viewers from coast-to-coast with their incredible energy and spirit. We cannot wait to continue this special NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47 holiday tradition and welcome this year's winners to 30 Rock."

The winning group will be invited to perform during the annual holiday broadcast from Rockefeller Center. Previous Star Choir winners included P.S. 103 in The Bronx in 2021, P.S.14 in Corona, Queens, in 2022, High Tech High School of the Hudson County Schools of Technology in 2023, Neptune High School's Scarlet Sound A Cappella Choir in 2024, and Franklin High School's Gold 'N Blues Student Choir in 2025.

The stations said eligible groups must have at least 10 members and no more than 35 members. All entrants must be between 6 and 18 years old. Groups are asked to submit a video performance of any holiday-themed song that is up to three minutes long.

Groups chosen for a second round will be asked to perform and submit an original second performance of "Up on the Housetop."

Entries are being accepted through Monday, Oct. 12.
NBC 4 New York/WNBC and Telemundo 47/WNJU said organizations can submit applications at nbcnewyork.com/choir or telemundo47.com/choir. The contest is open to youth singing groups in WNBC's viewing areas in New York, New Jersey, Fairfield County, Connecticut, and Pike County, Pennsylvania.

More information about the contest and station websites is available through NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47.