London's festive season has welcomed an unlikely new social media star: the official X account for the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree. The account, which posts from the tree's own perspective, has been charming Londoners with a stream of witty, bark-based humour and festive puns.
A Spruce with Social Media Savvy
The account, operating under the handle @trafalgartree, has been quietly amassing a loyal following. Its posts are written as if the towering Norwegian spruce itself is typing, boasting about its branches, cracking jokes about pine needles, and commenting on its prime location. The tone is whimsical and distinctly London, embracing the city's love for assigning personality to its landmarks.
Remarkably, the follower list isn't just comprised of amused members of the public. It includes official accounts like City Hall, Westminster City Council, several local councillors, and even the Mayor of Hackney. This blend of civic and community engagement highlights how the account has become a unique part of the capital's December dialogue.
The Deep-Rooted History Behind the Humour
While the social media presence is a modern twist, the tradition of the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is steeped in poignant history. The annual gift began in 1947, when the people of Oslo presented a spruce to London as a token of gratitude for Britain's support during the Second World War.
Every year since, Oslo has selected a 60–70-year-old Norwegian spruce, typically standing 20–25 metres tall, as a enduring symbol of friendship and peace. The tree is felled in November, shipped across the North Sea, and erected in the square in early December. It is decorated in a traditional Norwegian style with vertical strings of white lights.
Lighting Up London's Festive Calendar
The ceremonial switch-on of the lights is a major fixture in London's holiday schedule. This year's event is scheduled for Thursday, 4 December 2025, drawing crowds to Trafalgar Square to witness the illumination. Followers of the tree's X account are now eagerly anticipating what commentary the tree might have on its own big moment.
In a city celebrated for its eccentricities—from secret alleyways to libraries in phone boxes—this talking tree has carved out its own niche. It combines a cherished historical tradition with contemporary, light-hearted engagement, proving that even a centuries-old custom can find a fresh, funny voice in the digital age.
