Norway's Annual Christmas Gift to London Since 1947

Every December, a towering Norwegian spruce takes center stage in London's Trafalgar Square. But this isn't just any Christmas tree—it's a living thank-you note from Norway, sent annually since 1947 as gratitude for Britain's support during World War II.

The tradition began after German forces invaded Norway in April 1940. King Haakon VII and his government fled to London, where they established a government-in-exile. For five years, Britain provided refuge, resources, and unwavering support to Norway's resistance efforts. When peace finally came, Norway wanted to express its gratitude in a meaningful way.

A Gift That Keeps Giving

In 1947, Norway sent its first Christmas tree to London. Nearly 80 years later, the tradition endures. The City of Oslo carefully selects a Norwegian spruce from its surrounding forests—typically 50-60 years old and over 20 meters (65+ feet) tall. In 2024, the 77th tree came from Grefsenkleiva in Oslo's forest.

Each November, a felling ceremony brings together the Lord Mayor of Westminster, the Mayor of Oslo, and the British Ambassador to Norway. The tree's journey to London has even gone green—in 2024, it traveled partly by electric truck, a nod to modern environmental consciousness.

Norwegian Style in the Heart of London

The tree stands in Trafalgar Square from early December through January 6th, decorated in traditional Norwegian fashion with vertical strings of white lights—a stark contrast to the colorful, heavily adorned trees common in Britain. This simple, elegant style reflects Norwegian Christmas traditions.

At the tree's base sits a plaque with words that have remained unchanged since 1947: "This tree is given by the city of Oslo as a token of Norwegian gratitude to the people of London for their assistance during the years 1940-45."

More Than Just Tradition

What makes this gift extraordinary isn't just its longevity—it's what it represents. This isn't a diplomatic gesture between distant governments; it's a genuine expression of gratitude between peoples. The Norwegian tradition of tusen takk (a thousand thanks) comes to life each year in the form of a living tree.

The lighting ceremony on the first Thursday of December has become a beloved London event, attended by Norwegian and British dignitaries, choirs singing carols in both languages, and thousands of Londoners who gather to witness this symbol of international friendship.

In an era when World War II slips further into history, the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree serves as a beautiful reminder: acts of kindness and solidarity during dark times deserve to be remembered, celebrated, and honored—year after year, generation after generation.