Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Each December, Trafalgar Square hosts a towering Norway spruce—a diplomatic gift from Oslo to London since 1947, symbolizing gratitude for British support during World War II.
The tree, typically 20-25 meters tall and 50-60 years old, is harvested from Oslo's certified sustainable forests in November. After a ceremonial cutting attended by Norwegian and British officials, it travels by sea and road to London.
Erection occurs in early December, followed by decoration with hundreds of energy-efficient LED lights in traditional Norwegian vertical style. The official lighting ceremony takes place on the first Thursday of December, featuring carols, readings, and the Lord Mayor of Westminster.
The tree remains illuminated daily until Twelfth Night (January 6), when it's removed for recycling—chipped for compost or repurposed for community projects, continuing its sustainable lifecycle.
This living tradition transforms Trafalgar Square into a seasonal landmark, embodying international friendship and shared history.