Trafalgar Square Christmas tree lights up – but many rage at ‘scrawny’ branches

was lit up in a traditional ceremony on Thursday evening, but not everyone was impressed.

While some praised the festive spirit and longstanding tradition, others took to social media to slam the tree’s “scrawny” branches.

The 20-metre-high (65ft) fir is a gift from and has been a symbol of gratitude since 1947, following .

The tree is a 56-year-old Norwegian spruce and was decorated in a traditional Nordic style before being lit up by London’s Lord Mayor alongside the Mayor of Oslo, Anne Lindboe.

The event featured carol singing and poetry readings, and drew dozens of attendees.

While many enjoyed the festivities, the tree itself sparked a debate online.

One X user said the tree looked like a “giant Gherkin,” while another added that it “gets scrawnier and scrawnier every year.” Another joked: “It’s here. Well, half of it anyway.”

Others compared it unfavourably to the Rockefeller Centre tree in .

One person said: “Norway, who gives us a tree for Trafalgar Square every year, please take note.”

Despite the criticism, there were plenty of supporters defending the tree.

One fan wrote: “Respect the stoic Norwegian spruce. It’s a tradition.” Another added: “Thank you, Norway, for your annual gift. It’s one of the few traditions left in that hasn’t changed.”

The tree itself even joined the conversation, with its official X account posting: “Guess who’s back? Before the haters start commenting on my branches, I’ve had 10 days of beauty sleep. Who wouldn’t look a bit flat after that kind of travel?”

The Trafalgar Square tree has been a beloved tradition for decades, symbolising the friendship between the UK and Norway.

While some grumbled about the need for “a lot of fluffing to hide the dead branches,” others cherished the tree’s history and meaning.

One Facebook user summed it up, saying: “Don’t know why people have to be so negative. You are a wonderful gift.”