Trafalgar Square Christmas tree

In the 61st year of the tradition, that is an integral part of London life, the people of Norway will once again give Londoners a Christmas tree for celebrations in Trafalgar Square.

The Trafalgar square Christmas tree tradition springs from the close relationship between Norway and Britain that grew during the second world war. Norway was invaded by German forces in 1940 and King Haakon VII escaped to Britain and a Norwegian exile government was set up in London. Since 1947 a tree has been given each Christmas as a symbol of the warm relationship between Norway and Britain.

The tree, a Norwegian spruce is around 50 - 100 years old, the tree will have been selected for London and Trafalgar Square months in advance. Fondly known by Norwegian forestry workers as 'the queen of the forest', the Christmas tree is cut down in November during a ceremony involving the Mayor of Westminster, the British ambassador to Norway and the Mayor of Oslo.

The Christmas lighting up ceremony in Trafalgar Square will take place in the early evening of Thursday 6th December. Accompanied by a band and choir singing Christmas carols the Lord Mayor of Westminster arrives and switches on the twinkling white lights of the Christmas tree.

Norwegian people have a fondness for London. Later in the year, May 17th sees many Norwegians in London celebrate their Constitution Day with a special parade in Southwark Park. The parade commemorates the constitution that guaranteed Norwegian independence from Denmark in 1814.

Norwegians visiting London can find airport parking and airport hotels for excellent prices with Holiday Extras.

If you are visiting London this Christmas, a London theatre break is the perfect way to indulge yourself and get in the mood for your seasonal celebrations. We have some superb offers to suit all tastes and even the tightest of Christmas budgets, saving as much as £31 per person.