Advent Fact

The Christmas tree that stands in Trafalgar Square every Christmas is actually a gift from Norway given annually since 1947, as a token of appreciation for the friendship and support the British gave to the Norwegian people during the hostilities of World War II (also throughout the war the country's government, along with Prince Olav, lived in exile in London).

In late Autumn the Lord Major of Westminster traditionally visits Oslo and helps in the felling of the tree, after which the Major of Oslo travels to London to perform the lighting of the tree at the Christmas ceremony.