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Norwegian Christmas Tree Divides London. "More Modest Every Year"
This is the first edition in which the choice of the Christmas tree was made by internet users. Fot. X/@trafalgartree/Canva Pro
The traditional Christmas tree from Oslo has been placed on Trafalgar Square in London. Despite the long-standing tradition, some Britons are once again expressing disappointment with the tree's appearance.
The Oslo Christmas tree was set up in the heart of London as an annual symbol of friendship between Norway and the United Kingdom. This year marks the 79th edition of the tradition. Many locals and tourists have noted the tree’s slender silhouette. Some say the tree looks more modest with each passing year.
Britons Comment on the Tree's Appearance
Among the onlookers was Sylvia Scott, as reported by NRK, who described the tree as "slender and small." She admitted she expected a more impressive gift. After realizing she was speaking to a Norwegian journalist, she added a smiling thank you to Norway.
This year, for the first time, the tree was chosen in an online vote conducted by Visit Norway. Another novelty is the method of transport—the tree was delivered using electric trucks on both sides of the North Sea.
This year, for the first time, the tree was chosen in an online vote conducted by Visit Norway. Another novelty is the method of transport—the tree was delivered using electric trucks on both sides of the North Sea.
Hope you guys over in the UK enjoy the tree this year This is the 79th time the City of Oslo sends a Christmas tree to London as a thank-you for the help during the Second World War. pic.twitter.com/XrmiiYvATl
— Joakim ???? (@joakial_) December 3, 2025
Criticism and Signs of Affection
Skeptical opinions are also voiced by other visitors to Trafalgar Square. Marilyn Goatley points out that you can "see right through the tree," and in her opinion, denser branches would improve the effect. Diane Hughes, who came with her granddaughter from northern England, also hoped for a bigger tree.
There are also comments from abroad—one American tourist jokingly remarked that "everything here seems a bit smaller." Nevertheless, many passersby stop to take photos.
There are also comments from abroad—one American tourist jokingly remarked that "everything here seems a bit smaller." Nevertheless, many passersby stop to take photos.
And just like that… I’m SHINING BRIGHT it’s officially the Christmas season! Thank you to everyone who came out tonight, you made my big moment feel extra magical. pic.twitter.com/odfXHcdDxB
— Trafalgar Square Tree (@trafalgartree) December 4, 2025
Oslo Responds with Humor
The concerns do not discourage the authorities in Oslo. Mayor Anne Lindboe responds to the comments with humor and encourages Londoners to judge the tree only after it is fully decorated. She emphasizes that the tree—like any 60-year-old "classic"—needs a moment to show its full glory.
There are also tourists on site who praise Norway’s gift and assure that with decorations it will look "beautiful." In their opinion, the tree already brings a festive mood to the city center.
There are also tourists on site who praise Norway’s gift and assure that with decorations it will look "beautiful." In their opinion, the tree already brings a festive mood to the city center.
Festive Atmosphere Despite Disputes Over the Tree's Shape
Although the decorations will be limited to vertical lights, rather than the garlands popular in the UK that wrap around the tree, the tradition remains unchanged. Londoners and visitors are waiting for the moment the lights are switched on, which will officially open the Christmas season at Trafalgar Square. For many, this ritual marks the symbolic beginning of the December atmosphere.
Tourists emphasize that even a more modest tree can bring a festive mood, which will become more and more visible in central London each day.
Tourists emphasize that even a more modest tree can bring a festive mood, which will become more and more visible in central London each day.
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