It’s December, which means one thing: Christmas. This festival of wishes and celebrations lights up cities like no other. There is a distinct feeling of joy in December that no other month carries. The smell of gingerbread cookies and the comforting aroma of hot chocolate from cafes signal one thing: the festive season is finally here. It feels like wishes are about to come true. Among all these festive details, one thing stands out the most: the Christmas tree. They form the most important part of celebrations across the world. From historic town squares to modern city centres, some these trees have become iconic. They symbolise magic, tradition and celebration. Today, we look at the 10 most iconic Christmas trees in the world.
10 Iconic Christmas Trees Across The World
1. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, New York City
The Rockefeller Centre Christmas tree is installed every year at Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The entire area turns into a winter wonderland, with the glowing tree becoming a star attraction for tourists and locals. The tree is famous for its rich history. During the Great Depression, workers pooled in money to put up a tree, turning it into a symbol of hope. Today, it is known for its massive size, stunning decorations and the iconic Swarovski crystal star on top.
2. Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree, London
One of the most iconic Christmas trees in the world, the Trafalgar Square tree is a major attraction in London during Christmas. Norway gifts this tree to Britain every year as a gesture of gratitude for Britain’s help during World War II. Unlike many other Christmas trees, this one is decorated with vertical strings of white lights, without baubles or tinsel. An annual lighting ceremony draws large crowds. If you visit London during Christmas, Trafalgar Square should definitely be on your list.
3. Galeries Lafayette Christmas Tree, Paris
Every year, a giant Christmas tree is set up in the central space of Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann. Placed under the iconic stained-glass Coupole, it marks the official start of the festive season in Paris. Each year, the tree is designed in collaboration with a famous artist or designer. It attracts visitors from across the world! Honestly, this Christmas tree looks straight out of a Parisian fairytale!
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4. Gubbio Mount Ingino Christmas Tree, Italy
Recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest Christmas tree, the Gubbio Christmas tree is installed on the slopes of Mount Ingino in Italy. It overlooks the city of Gubbio and lights up the entire mountainside. The tradition began in 1981, when locals decided to celebrate Christmas in a unique way. Since then, the tree has been illuminated every year. A Christmas tree on a mountainside feels magical enough to plan a trip to Italy soon!
5. Floating Christmas Tree, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is home to the world’s largest floating Christmas tree. Installed in the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, the tree glows with millions of lights. The floating display has become a cultural landmark in the city. Visitors gather not just for the dazzling lights, but also for fireworks and festive boat rides during the festive season.
6. Vilnius Christmas Tree, Lithuania
The Christmas tree at Cathedral Square in Vilnius is often considered among the best in the world. Thousands of LED lights decorate the tree, creating an immersive visual experience. Modern lighting technology, including RGB effects, gives the tree changing colours and patterns. This year, it features red and gold lights, sticking to classic Christmas colours.
7. Strasbourg Christmas Tree, France
No list of iconic Christmas trees is complete without mentioning the Strasbourg Christmas tree in France. Known as the ‘Capital of Christmas’, Strasbourg hosts one of Europe’s tallest decorated Christmas trees. The tree stands at the heart of one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, a tradition that dates back centuries. Covered in lights and ornaments, it is a true festive centrepiece.
8. St Peter’s Square Christmas Tree, Vatican City
The St Peter’s Square Christmas tree is erected every year in front of St Peter’s Basilica. Pope John Paul II introduced this tradition in 1982, bringing the Northern European Christmas tree custom to the Vatican. Each year, the tree is donated by a different European country or region. Today, it is one of the most important symbols of Christmas celebrations in Vatican City.
9. Dortmund Christmas Tree, Germany
The Christmas tree at the Dortmund Christmas Market in Germany is one of the largest natural Christmas trees in the world. It stands over 45 metres tall and is built using around 1,200 spruce trees. Topped with a giant angel and lit with over 138,000 LED lights, the tree is the main centrepiece of the market. It is undoubtedly one of the most iconic Christmas trees in the world!
10. Lisbon Christmas Tree, Portugal
Lisbon’s Christmas tree is one of Europe’s tallest artificial Christmas trees. Known for its grand illumination and festive atmosphere, it attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. Its sheer size and the use of LED lights make it not just spectacular but also environmentally friendly. Plus, it is beautiful too.
Also Read: 10 Christmas Markets In India That Feel Straight Out Of Europe
So, which iconic Christmas tree would you love to see in person?
Cover Image Courtesy: @Dashwood__/ X and @GermanEmbassy/ X
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