Exceptional trees - Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
Every year, December visitors to Trafalgar Square in London get to enjoy a Christmas tree that stands as a symbol of friendship between Norway and Britain. It’s a tradition that began in 1947 and continues to this day. Each December, the tree, a Norway spruce, takes its place in the square where it remains until January 6th, marking the end of the Christmas season.
The tradition dates back to World War II when Britain provided crucial support to Norway during the German occupation. In 1942, the first tree was cut down by Norwegian resistance fighter Mons Urangsvåg during a raid on Hisøy island. This tree was presented to King Haakon VII of Norway, who had found refuge in Britain during the war.
The gift of the tree is typically a 50-60 year old Norway spruce, over 20 meters tall. Its journey begins with a ceremonial cutting in Norway each November, attended by distinguished representatives including the British Ambassador to Norway, Oslo's Mayor, and Westminster's Lord Mayor. The tree then starts its voyage across the North Sea, accompanied by a specialist lifting and transportation group overseeing its transportation, security, and installation in Trafalgar Square.
Decorated in a traditional Norwegian style, the tree has 500 white lights and in keeping with modern environmental concerns, energy-efficient lighting is used. A plaque at the tree's base reads: 'This tree is given by the city of Oslo as a token of Norwegian gratitude to the people of London for their assistance during the years 1940-45. A tree has been given annually since 1947.'
The lighting ceremony, held on the first Thursday of December, draws thousands of spectators. Led by Westminster's Lord Mayor, the event features musical performances by bands and choirs before the turning-on ceremony. Throughout December, the tree serves as a centerpiece for carol singers who gather to raise funds for various charitable causes.
Since 2009, the Poetry Society has added a cultural dimension by commissioning new poems displayed on banners around the tree's base. In 2010, this literary tradition expanded to include schoolchildren performing poetry at the lighting ceremony
The tree's journey continues where after Twelfth Night, it is chipped, converting it into mulch to be used in London’s parks.
