Norwegian Christmas Tree arrives in Trafalgar Square as symbol of gratitude

A symbol of historic gratitude has arrived in Trafalgar Square, courtesy of the people of Norway: a majestic Christmas tree. Since 1947, Norway has sent an annual gift to Britain, expressing thanks for its support during World War Two. Standing nearly 20 meters tall and approximately 70 years old, this year's chosen "queen of the forest" was carefully selected from woodlands around Oslo, then ceremonially felled in November. Patricia McAllister, the Lord Mayor of Westminster, lauded the spruce as "spectacular" during the tree's harvesting.

Transported by sea and lorry, this remarkable tree is adorned with Christmas lights, following traditional Norwegian vertical draping. The energy-efficient bulbs will illuminate during a ceremony on December 7th. Ms. McAllister, who participated in the tree's felling, described the moment as "astonishing, spectacular, emotional," particularly when the tree was lifted from its 70-year home.

Despite past instances where Norwegian Christmas trees sparked online debates due to their appearance, the foresters overseeing this year's selection affirm its regal status as "the queen of the forest." Each year, The Poetry Society commissions a poem about the Oslo Christmas Tree, this time presenting "T for Tree" by Isabel Galleymore, crafted especially for children and to be recited during the tree-lighting ceremony.


The grand spruce will grace Trafalgar Square until January 5th, after which it will be chipped and composted, concluding its festive tenure.