Norway’s Annual Christmas Tree Gift Erected in Trafalgar Square

The annual Christmas tree, a gift from Norway, has arrived in London and been installed in Trafalgar Square. This tradition, observed annually since 1947, involves felling and transporting a tree to England’s capital as a gesture of gratitude for the United Kingdom’s support to Norway during World War Two. Robert Rigby, the Lord Mayor of Westminster, reconnected with the 66ft (20m) tree, which he assisted in cutting down in Oslo. He commented on X that while it “may look slightly flat at first,” there is no cause for concern as it will “unfurl” and appear “majestic.” Energy-efficient Christmas lights will adorn the Norwegian spruce, with the illumination ceremony scheduled for 5 December. Each year, the tree travels to the UK by sea, concluding its journey via lorry. In an effort to enhance the tradition’s environmental sustainability, this year’s tree completed a segment of its journey to London using an electric truck, and a new tree has been planted in Oslo as a replacement. The spruce for this year is approximately 57 years old, weighs around one tonne, and originated from the Forest of Grefsenkleiva. The tree was hoisted into its designated spot in the central London square. Beneath a paving slab, a concealed hole equipped with mechanical arms secures the tree, enabling it to endure strong winds, according to information provided to BBC London. This year commemorates the 77th anniversary since King Haakon VII dispatched the inaugural spruce to London. Following Norway’s invasion in 1940, the king found asylum in Britain, and the Norwegian government-in-exile was subsequently established in London. The spruce is scheduled to stay in Trafalgar Square until 6 January, after which it will undergo recycling and be repurposed as mulch for city gardens, as stated by Westminster City Council.