Hoda Kotb Emotionally Lights Up Her Final Rockefeller Tree Before ‘Today’ Show Farewell

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Hoda Kotb’s final Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting as a Today show anchor was bittersweet — not only did it kick off the holiday season, but it also marked her last time hosting the beloved tradition after over 26 years with NBC.

On Wednesday, December 4, the 60-year-old long-time broadcaster joined co-hosts Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, and Craig Melvin under the iconic tree to ring in the holiday season.

“Taking in the moment. 🤍 It’s snowing at Rockefeller Center!” the news program captioned a video of Kotb and Guthrie, 52, on Instagram. In the clip, the pair stood smiling at each other, arm-in-arm as the massive tree was lit for the annual NYC tradition.

After the post hit social media, it didn’t take long for fans to react.

“NOT ME CRYING RIGHT NOW. THE MOST MAGICAL NIGHT FOR HODA’S LAST YEAR🥹🥹🥹,” one person commented.

“Hoda is the BEST. She will be missed ❤️,” another added.

“Oh my God! I was crying just thinking that this was the last time together doing this! Will going to miss Hoda a LOT!!! You’re like Thelma and Louise together! 😢” a third chimed in.

“You ladies look great and I hope you ladies have a Merry Christmas 🎄 and a happy New Year,” said another.

Since announcing her departure in September, Kotb has been soaking in a series of emotional “lasts.” During her final Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Cynthia Erivo surprised Kotb with a bouquet of white flowers. “I wanted to say we love you,” the 37-year-old British actress said at the time. “Thank you for all of the hard work you’ve done all of these years.”

While the beloved NBC star is leaving Today to spend more time with her daughters, Haley, 7, and Hope, 4, she’s not slowing down. Speaking to People in October, she revealed plans for an exciting new project.

“I have something that I am super excited about that’s in its infancy,” she said. “It’s a whole wellness situation… and I’ve been loving it.” Kotb hinted that the venture might involve a wellness app focused on stress relief and wellbeing, areas she’s been exploring personally. “I think it would be, number one, fun, and number two, helpful,” she added.

The mom of two’s final day as co-host will be on Friday, January 10 — Craig Melvin will officially take over alongside Guthrie on Monday, January 13.