Trafalgar Square Christmas tree
The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is a Christmas tree given to the people of London by the city of Oslo each year since 1947.[1] The tree is prominently displayed in Trafalgar Square from the beginning of December until 6 January.
History
A Trafalgar Square Christmas tree has been an annual gift to the people of Britain from Norway as a token of gratitude for British support to Norway during the
The tree has provided a central focus for the Trafalgar Square traditional carol-singing programme, performed by different groups raising money for voluntary or charitable organisations.
The tree remains until just before the Twelfth Night of Christmas, when it is taken down for recycling. The tree is chipped and composted, to make mulch.[2]
Tree
The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is typically a 50- to 60-year-old
The Trafalgar Square tree is decorated in a traditional Norwegian style and adorned with 500 white lights.
At the base of the tree stands a plaque, bearing the words:
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.
Lighting ceremony and carolling
The tree lighting ceremony in Trafalgar Square takes place on the first Thursday in December and is attended by thousands of people.
Traditionally, the tree provides a focal point for Christmas carolling groups.[3] For many in London, the tree and the accompanying carolling signals the countdown to Christmas.[2]
Since 2009, the
References
- ^ Solholm, Rolleiv (7 December 2013). "Norway's Christmas tree lights up Trafalgar Square". The Norway Post. NRK. Retrieved 7 December 2013.
- ^ a b c d e "Christmas in Trafalgar Square Archived 16 February 2009 at the Wayback Machine", Greater London Assembly, official site, 2008, accessed 26 March 2009.
- ^ ISBN 0747801754).
- ^ a b c Strange, Hannah. "The Trafalgar Christmas Tree" The Times, (London), 6 December 2007, accessed 26 March 2009.
- ^ a b "Trafalgar Square Christmas tree marks the start of Christmas in Westminster", City of Westminster, 8 December 2008, accessed 26 March 2009.
- ^ "Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree - Wrapped in Poetry". The Poetry Society. 2010. Archived from the original on 2 January 2011. Retrieved 10 December 2010.