From towering evergreens to artistic marvels, the diversity of the best Christmas trees around the world is as vast as the spirit they embody. These trees tell tales of festive joy and gratitude from the iconic Rockefeller Center tree in New York City to the cherished Norwegian gift in London’s Trafalgar Square. While Italy’s Gubbio boasts a colossal tree ascending Mount Ingino, a floating Christmas tree on Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon in Rio de Janeiro paints a tropical picture of unconventional beauty.
As we journey through these global marvels, each Christmas tree unveils a unique tale, a testament to the universal joy that binds us during this magical time of the year. So, whether you find yourself beneath the lights of Rockefeller Center or in the cosy nooks of St Pancras station, these Christmas trees kindle the warmth of the season, light up the night sky and spread the magic of togetherness.
The most iconic Christmas trees in the world
Rockefeller Center, New York City
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Image Credit: Andrew F. Kazmierski/Shutterstock
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Image Credit: Pe Dra/Shutterstock
Rockefeller Center is a famous part of the New York City skyline all year round, but as Christmas approaches, the 80-foot tall Norway Spruce steals the show with 50,000 colourful lights and a dazzling Swarovski star.
Dating back to December 1933, the annual Christmas tree lighting tradition at Rockefeller Center continues, and this year’s 91st ceremony is set for November 29, 2023. The tree will be lit for 24 hours on Christmas. Don’t miss the enchanting display, as the iconic tree will shine until its grand farewell on January 13, 2024, at 10 pm EST.
Things to do: Ice skating, Rockefeller Center tour, Santa photo experience, top of the rock viewing experience
Trafalgar Square, London
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Image Credit: Alexey Fedorenko/Shutterstock
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Image Credit: Pajor Pawel/Shutterstock
The Norwegian Christmas Tree at London’s Trafalgar Square has been a treasured present from Norway to the United Kingdom since 1947. This year celebrates the 76th anniversary of this annual gift, a token of appreciation for British support during World War II.
Holding a tradition that’s been standing tall for 60 years, the majestic tree will grace Trafalgar Square until January 4, 2024 — marking the twelfth night of Christmas — before being recycled into mulch for gardens across the city.
Things to do: Shopping at Covent Garden Market, visiting Piccadilly Circus, Christmas lights tour on an open-top bus, savouring traditional Christmas pies and mulled wine.
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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Image Credit: Donatas Dabravolskas/Shutterstock
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Image Credit: A.PAES/Shutterstock
In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, a stunning floating Christmas tree graces the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, adding a touch of magic to the festivities since 1996. Breaking records, it stands at an impressive 278 feet, bedecked with over 3 million lights and vibrant decorations, and accompanied by an amazing firework display. It’s a unique holiday spectacle that truly lights up the season!
Things to do: Go yacht-sailing, attend a samba school rehearsal, visit the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, visit Christ the Redeemer statue, gondola ride to Sugarloaf mountains.
Gubbio, Italy
Since 1981, the mediaeval town of Gubbio in the Umbria region of Italy has been illuminating the world’s largest ‘Christmas tree’ on December 7 every year. Using 300 green lights to outline the tree and over 350 multicoloured lights within, the festive display spans 2,000 feet along the slopes of Mount Ingino.
Starting at the town’s foot, it ascends to the peak where the Basilica of the Patron Sant’Ubaldo sits, crowned with a luminous shooting star made of over 200 lights. Gubbio transforms into a magical Christmas atmosphere, creating a spectacular holiday experience.
Things to do: Visit the Basilica of Saint Ubaldo, tour the Fountain of the Madmen, visit museums, cathedrals and the Roman theatre
Also read – The Best Places To Visit In Italy Each Month, According To A Luxury Travel Expert
Vilnius, Lithuania
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Image Credit: Veja/Shutterstock
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Image Credit: Michele Ursi/Shutterstock
While Lithuania might not be the top pick for many travellers, it shines bright during Christmas with its unique celebration. Annually, the cathedral square transforms into a festive hotspot, drawing tourists intrigued by the ever-changing themed Christmas tree.
In 2022, the Christmas tree took on a delightful three-layered birthday cake appearance, lit up by 700 candle-shaped lights. This special design marked Vilnius’ 700th anniversary, a celebration that continued throughout 2023. The centrepiece is a Christmas tree adorned with golden toys and sparkling garlands, adding a magical touch to the holiday season.
Things to do: Visit Poetry Street, enjoy the botanical gardens, and bar hopping, check out the gate of dawn, and plan a tour of castles and cathedrals.
Madrid, Spain
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Image Credit: Helena GARCIA HUERTAS/Shutterstock
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Image Credit: Ivan Marc/Shutterstock
In the heart of Puerta del Sol square, behold a spectacular Christmas tree like no other. This 35-metre-tall marvel isn’t your usual pine—it’s a dazzling metal structure that digitally interprets the essence of a traditional tree. Lit up with over 40,000 LED bulbs, its cone shape creates a mesmerising display. Visitors to the Spanish capital can even step inside to bask in the magical interiors of the tree.
Things to do: Enjoy the street art, go shopping in the Salamanca neighbourhood, dine at Casa Botín, and watch a football match and flamenco show.
St Pancras railway station, London
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Image Credit: stpancras.com
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Image Credit: Alexey Fedorenko/Shutterstock
Get ready to be amazed by the 2023 St Pancras Christmas tree! Teaming up with Hatchards, the UK’s oldest bookstore, St Pancras station presents a 12-metre-tall wonder. This tree is not your usual—it boasts a spiral staircase, winding around 270 bookshelves. Almost 4,000 hand-painted books grace the tree, featuring festive titles like Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol and C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.
At the tree’s base, discover eight cosy nooks, each offering a snug spot for book enthusiasts to pause, sit, and dive into a captivating read. Adding to the charm, each booth treats visitors to a delightful five-minute audiobook excerpt provided by Penguin Books. This Christmas tree is not just a festive decoration; it’s a magical retreat for literature lovers to savour the holiday spirit.
Things to do: Visit Woburn Safari Park, shop at Harrods, watch the Lion King play at Lyceum Theatre, enjoy the traditional fish and chips, and take a ride on the London Eye.
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(Feature image credit: Donatas Dabravolskas/Shutterstock)
Related: Embrace Festive Holiday Spirit At These Gorgeous Christmas Destinations Around The World
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– What makes a Christmas tree one of the best in the world?
An iconic tree earns its status through a unique blend of historical significance, cultural relevance, extraordinary size, distinct appearance, or exceptional longevity.
– Are there any famous Christmas tree lighting ceremonies around the world?
The Rockefeller Center’s massive tree lighting in New York, Trafalgar Square’s annual gift from Norway in London, and Strasbourg’s “Capital of Christmas” event are iconic.
– Do these famous Christmas trees have a specific theme or design each year?
Yes, many famous Christmas trees around the world feature specific themes or designs that change each year such as the Christmas tree in Cathedral Square, Lithuania, where the theme changes every year.
– Can I visit these Christmas trees, and are there specific dates for public viewing?
Certainly! You can visit iconic Christmas trees like the one at Rockefeller Center in New York City and Trafalgar Square in London during the holiday season.
– Are there any special events or activities associated with these famous Christmas trees?
Iconic Christmas trees worldwide are celebrated with special events. In cities like New York, the Rockefeller Center Tree lighting is a star-studded spectacle carried out annually since 1933. London’s Trafalgar Square tree, a gift from Oslo, is lit in a ceremony to mark the friendship between the two countries. The Christmas tree in Lithuania is lit up with a different theme every year.
– Are there any environmentally friendly initiatives associated with these Christmas trees?
Famous Christmas trees globally are increasingly associated with environmentally friendly initiatives. For instance, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York is often sourced sustainably, with efforts to recycle the tree post-holidays.
– Can I find replicas or smaller versions of these famous Christmas trees in local areas?
You can likely find replicas or smaller versions of famous and iconic Christmas trees in your local area by exploring holiday and decor stores, Christmas markets, and artisan fairs. Online marketplaces often offer handmade or customised options.
– Can I find vegetarian or vegan food options near these famous Christmas trees?
In urban areas surrounding famous Christmas trees, various vegetarian and vegan food options are typically available. Explore local streets and neighbourhoods for restaurants and cafés offering plant-based choices. Many Christmas markets feature food stalls with vegetarian and vegan options, and food delivery apps can connect you with nearby eateries.
Written By
Ruchit Rastogi
A journalism graduate, Ruchit has worked with Republic TV as a news writer before venturing into the world of travel with Flynote, covering both local and international stories. Off the clock, Ruchit can be spotted cafe hopping, indulging in his love for reading, cooking, or planning his next solo adventure. A wandering hermit at heart, his days are ..Read More
