The story behind the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree

Every year since 1947 Norway has sent London a Christmas tree to show friendship and gratitude for Britain’s assistance during World War II. The tree has created a central focus for the Trafalgar Square traditional carol-singing program. The tradition is performed by different groups raising money for voluntary and charitable organizations.

The tree is often 20 meters tall and is decorated in Norwegian style with a lot of Christmas trappings and over 500 white lights. The tree is set up 12 days before Christmas and is taken down 12 days after Christmas. After taking down the tree is chipped and composted to make mulch. 

This poster is found in front of the Christmas tree in London.

The tree lighting ceremony in Trafalgar Square takes place on the first Thursday in December and thousands of people attend. The ceremony is led by the Lord Mayor of Westminster, in addition a band is performing.

Here you can see the Christmas tree in London from 2011

Over 700 000 British and about 11 000 Norwegians died under World War 2. Many of the Norwegians who died were working on the merchant fleet and where bombed. Norway wouldn't have been the same without the help from England under World War 2, and that’s why we’re sending a Christmas tree every year.