A familiar sight, an overlooked story

Lydia Houghton  |  Features
Date posted:  24 Dec 2025
Share Add       
A familiar sight, an overlooked story

'18 December 1947, Norwegian Christmas tree arrives for the first time in London, to be placed in the middle of Trafalgar Square.' Source: PICRYL

Did you know that one of London's most famous Christmas landmarks is rooted in a deeply Christian story of sacrifice, peace, and reconciliation?

I'm talking about the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree. Each December, the Norwegian Pine stands, at an impressive 65 feet tall, in the heart of London . Its lighting ceremony takes place on the first Thursday of December, featuring carols and performances, and the tree continues to grace the UK's capital city until early January. Many people know that the tree comes from Norway, but few pause to ask why.

The gift that followed darkness

Since 1947, Norway has gifted the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree each year as a gesture of thanks for Britain’s support during the Second World War, which included sheltering the Norwegian King during the Nazi occupation.

Share
< Previous article| Features| Next article >
Read more articles on:   Christmas  /  evangelism  /  history
Read more articles by Lydia Houghton >>
UK & Ireland
Soldier saved by ‘divine intervention’ aims for pulpit

Soldier saved by ‘divine intervention’ aims for pulpit

A former soldier who gave his life to the Lord after narrowly escaping death is now training for ministry.Kevin …

People
Alice Cooper

Alice Cooper

Rock artist Vincent Furnier – whose stage name is Alice Cooper – has described his four-decade-long sobriety as a “miracle” …

Need to advertise?

We can help you reach Christians across the country

Find out more

New here?

Register and get three free articles each month!

Register