Trafalgar Square has come on leaps and bounds over the last few years.
First, the powers that be took action to rid the place of the thousands of pigeons which could make a mess of any situation (and often did), and then traffic around the Square was drastically cut by blocking off the road in front of the National Gallery. Noise and pollution in the immediate vicinity was cut in an instant, making this famous feature of the capital a much more attractive place to visit.
As a result of these popular measures (unless you really love pigeons), the
Trafalgar Square Christmas experience is a whole lot more enjoyable.
For starters there's the magnificent Christmas tree. Every year since 1947, Norway's capital, Oslo, has presented a tree to Londoners in gratitude for the help Britain gave them during WWII.
The tree, usually around 20 metres in height, is transported from Norway by ship and lorry, and then decorated on the Square in the traditional Norwegian style - with vertical strings of light. The lighting ceremony takes place on the 2nd of December and is a surefire way of putting you in a festive mood.
As well as the tree, the Square will be hosting nightly carol singing events from the 7th of December to the 22nd of December. The carols will be sung by different choirs, many of which will be raising funds for charity. Come along and enjoy the sounds of Christmas, and even sing along if you like.
If you've never experienced Trafalgar Square at Christmas, how about going along this year with some friends and a couple of flasks of hot mulled wine. Merry Christmas!
