Several arrested during pro-Palestinian demonstration near Rockefeller Center tree lighting

The New York City Police Department made a handful of arrests Wednesday evening several blocks from the annual tree lighting ceremony in Rockefeller Center.

After rallying for at least an hour outside the News Corp building at 47th Street and 6th Avenue, a crowd of several hundred pro-Palestinian demonstrators unfurled a large flag and briefly tried to push its way north in the direction of the tree. A line of police and barricades prevented the movement.

The group then moved southbound on 6th Avenue, away from the scene.

Seven people, six adults and one juvenile, were arrested at Wednesday night's protest, according to the NYPD.

The NYPD said the protesters marched around Midtown Manhattan before dispersing around 11 p.m.

The NYPD previously said there would be a "heavy security presence" at the ceremony "to ensure all visitors enjoy the celebration safely."