Every December, London’s Trafalgar Square sparkles with festive cheer—carol singers, mulled wine stalls and one very tall guest star: the Norwegian Christmas tree. Towering up to 25 meters high, this spruce has become as iconic to London’s holiday season as mince pies or complaining about the Tube.
But this isn’t just any Christmas tree – it’s a gift. A gift of gratitude, history and Nordic tradition.
Why Does Norway Send a Christmas Tree to London?
The tradition began in 1947, just after World War II. During the war, Norway was occupied by Nazi Germany and the UK stepped in to support its Nordic ally. Britain hosted Norway’s exiled King Haakon VII, provided military assistance, and helped maintain Norwegian morale.
When peace returned, the city of Oslo decided that a simple thank-you card wasn’t enough. Instead, they sent something bigger—much bigger. Since then, Oslo has gifted London a magnificent spruce every year. The Norwegian Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square has stood as a glowing symbol of gratitude and friendship for almost 80 years.
From Oslo’s Forests to Trafalgar Square
The chosen tree is always a Norwegian spruce (Picea abies), often around 60 years old, affectionately nicknamed “the queen of the forest.”
The felling ceremony near Oslo is attended by Norwegian and British officials, before the tree begins its journey across the North Sea. Like a Viking voyage – only much friendlier – it arrives in London, where it’s installed in Trafalgar Square.
In true Nordic style, the tree is decorated with vertical strings of white lights: minimalist, elegant and unmistakably Scandinavian.
A London Christmas Tradition
The annual lighting ceremony takes place in early December, attracting thousands of Londoners and tourists alike. Choirs sing carols, lights flicker on and Trafalgar Square transforms into the beating heart of London’s holiday celebrations.
The tree isn’t just a decoration – it’s a powerful reminder of shared history, resilience and a friendship that continues to thrive.
Did You Know?
- Oslo also sends Christmas trees to Edinburgh, Newcastle, and Sunderland.
- The Trafalgar Square spruce is so tall it sometimes makes Nelson’s Column look like it’s overcompensating.
- True to Nordic design philosophy, decorations are simple: less glitter, more meaning.
Experience Nordic Winter Magic Yourself
The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is just a taste of what Norway and the Nordics have to offer in winter. Imagine:
- Wandering through snow-covered forests.
- Chasing the Northern Lights in Tromsø.
- Sharing gløgg (mulled wine) in a cozy log cabin.
👉 Discover more Nordic winter stories or let Best of Nordic design your own magical holiday—from Christmas markets in Copenhagen to aurora safaris in Lapland.