Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
When
4th December 2008, 6pm - 2nd January 2009
Where
Trafalgar Square
Celebrate the beginning of Christmas and take part in a time-honoured London tradition, with the lighting of the world’s most famous Christmas tree at Trafalgar Square.
Historic tradition at Trafalgar SquareTrafalgar Square has been presented with a large Norwegian tree each winter for over 60 years, as a token of friendship and gratitude for Britain’s assistance during World War II. This historic tradition has become a definitive Christmas event in London, marking the onset of the festive season.
New for 2008This year marks the 62nd tree to come to London from the City of Oslo, a perennially popular occasion celebrating goodwill and friendship at Christmas. Celebrate a landmark Christmas event in the capital and get in the spirit of the season in traditional style.
Traditional lights at the Trafalgar Square Christmas treeThe Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree will be decorated in traditional Norwegian style, with 500 individual white lights. The tree itself is traditionally 20 – 25 metres tall and the sight of it decorated in white light has become an iconic London Christmas image. The lighting ceremony is traditionally attended by the Lord Mayor of Westminster, formally announcing the arrival of the tree in London from the forests surrounding Oslo.
Christmas festivities at Trafalgar SquareThe lighting of the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree includes a programme of festive events, some of which are ongoing until Christmas Day, including carol singing and more. After the initial lighting ceremony, the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree lights will be turned on from noon until midnight daily throughout the festive season.
The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree will be lit on Thursday 4th December 2008 at 6.00pm. The tree will remain at Trafalgar Square until 2nd January 2008.Carol singing will take place daily from Monday 8th December to Sunday 20th December 2008. The lighting ceremony and carol services are free to attend.Other London Christmas eventsBond NoelBond Street Christmas LightChristmas Carols at Hampton CourtMedieval Christmas at Tower of LondonWinter Wonderland TicketsSpirit of Christmas FairSlow Food Market LondonRegent Street Christmas LightsEthical Christmas EmporiumCarnaby Christmas DecorationsCarnaby Christmas ShoppingTraffic Free Shopping DayBankside Winter FestivalChristmas Parties