Christmas tree lighting ceremony

Each year since 1947, a Christmas tree has been given to the people of London from the people of Norway in gratitude for Britain's support for Norway during World War II. For many Londoners the Christmas tree and carol singing in Trafalgar Square signal the countdown to Christmas.

The 2009 Christmas tree lighting ceremony will take place on Thursday 3 December 2009 from 6pm.

The Lord Mayor of Westminster, the Mayors of Oslo and London at the Christmas tree lighting in Trafalgar Square - photo by Rogan MacdonaldIn 2008 the Mayor of London, the Lord Mayor of Westminster and the Mayor of Oslo took part in the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and there was carol-singing led by the Choir of St Martin-in-the-Fields.

Dedication of the crib

On Sunday 6 December 2009 the church of St Martin-in-the-Fields will hold its service for the dedication of the crib which is then placed in Trafalgar Square.

Carol-singing

The Christmas tree in the square provides a central focus for the traditional carol-singing programme. This year it will take place in the evenings, generally from 5pm to 9pm, from Monday 7 to Tuesday 22 December 2009. Different groups perform Christmas carols in the square, raising funds for voluntary or charitable organisations. Carol-singing groups wishing to take part must book their one-hour slot(s) in advance - see Carol-singing in the square for further information. All are welcome to come to the square to listen - and perhaps join in.

About the tree

The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is usually a Norwegian spruce (Picea abies) over 20 metres high and 50-60 years old. It is selected from the forests surrounding Oslo with great care several months, even years, in advance. The Norwegian foresters who look after it describe it fondly as 'the queen of the forest'.

The tree is felled in November during a ceremony in which the Lord Mayor of Westminster, the British ambassador to Norway and the Mayor of Oslo participate. It is brought to the UK by sea, then completes its journey by lorry. A specialist rigging team erects it in the square using a hydraulic crane. It is decorated in traditional Norwegian fashion, with vertical strings of lights - energy-efficient light bulbs are used.

Recycling the tree

The Christmas tree remains in Trafalgar Square until just before the Twelfth Night of Christmas, when it is taken down for recycling. The tree is chipped and composted, to make mulch.

Christmas tree lighting up ceremony/ Interview with Azeri Youth