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 Square
Trafalgar 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 2009
This year marks the 63rd 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 tree
The Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree is decorated in traditional Norwegian style with hundreds of 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 Square
The 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 dusk onwards throughout the festive season.

The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree lighting up ceremony takes place from 6pm, Thursday 3rd December 2009. The tree will remain at Trafalgar Square until Tuesday 5th January 2010.

Carol singing takes place daily from 5pm - 9pm, Monday 7th December - Sunday 20th December 2009. The lighting ceremony and carol services are free to attend.Other London Christmas events