Trafalgar Square's Christmas Tree: A Gift from Oslo Since 1947

Every December, a towering Norwegian spruce (Picea abies) glows in Trafalgar Square—a gift from the city of Oslo, Norway to the people of London.

The Tradition

• Started: 1947.
• Reason: Gratitude for British support during WWII—Norway's government-in-exile operated from London (1940–45); UK forces aided liberation.
• Tree: 20–25 m (65–80 ft), 50–100 years old, selected from Oslo's municipal forest (Nordmarka).
• Journey: Cut in Nov → shipped by sea to Immingham → trucked to London → erected by specialists.
• Lighting: 500+ white low-energy LEDs (vertical strings, Norwegian style). Ceremony: first Thu in Dec, with Oslo Mayor, Lord Mayor of Westminster, carols.

Symbolism

• Enduring friendship: NATO allies, close cultural ties.
• Resilience: Survived 2020 pandemic (virtual ceremony), 2022 cost-of-living (smaller tree).
• Reciprocity: London sends a tree to Oslo's Youngstorget square since 1996.

Fun Facts

• 2023 tree: 21 m, ~80 years old, from Nordmarka.
• Plaque on base: "This tree is given by the city of Oslo as a token of Norwegian gratitude for British help during the Second World War."
• After Twelfth Night: chipped for mulch in London parks.

For 75+ years, this tree has been London's most visible symbol of international gratitude—a living thank-you note from Norway.