LONDON — The iconic Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square was ceremoniously illuminated on Thursday, marking the continuation of a profound seven-decade tradition between London and Oslo. This annual lighting ceremony represents far more than seasonal decoration—it stands as an enduring symbol of international friendship forged during World War II.
The tradition originated in 1947 when Norway began gifting Christmas trees to Britain in gratitude for London’s support during the Nazi occupation. When Germany invaded Norway in 1940, King Haakon VII and his government established a government-in-exile in London. The BBC’s Norwegian-language broadcasts became a critical information lifeline for occupied Norwegians, who risked severe punishment to listen to prohibited transmissions.
Each tree undergoes an extensive selection process, with potential candidates identified five to ten years in advance. This year’s specimen, affectionately nicknamed ‘Ever Oslo,’ stands approximately 20 meters tall and is estimated to be sixty years old. Selected over competitors ‘Nordic Star’ and ‘Fjord Fir,’ the Norwegian spruce was carefully harvested on November 21st.
The tree’s journey to London involved meticulous transportation planning. After ceremonial felling, it traveled 180 kilometers to port in a specialized cradle, underwent cleansing to remove road salt, then embarked on a 26-hour sea voyage stored below deck for protection. The final leg involved truck transportation to central London.
The lighting ceremony—promoted on social media as ‘Britain’s national tree-sure’—traditionally occurs on the first Thursday of December and features vertically hung lights according to Norwegian custom. The tree will remain illuminated until January 5th (Twelfth Night), after which it will be recycled into compost and mulch. Meanwhile, Norwegian authorities will plant a replacement tree in the Oslo forest, ensuring the continuity of this meaningful tradition.