Every year since 1947, Norway has sent a Norwegian spruce to Trafalgar Square as a thank-you for Britain’s support during the Second World War. The lighting of that tree kicks off the season, and the Trafalgar Square Christmas Market sets up nearby with stalls framed by the National Gallery and Nelson’s Column.
Trafalgar Square Christmas Market 2026
Dates and Location
Status: Expected, based on previous years
Dates: 8th November 2026 to 5th January 2027
Last checked: July 2026
Source: Visit London
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Location: Trafalgar Square.
Opening hours: 11am to 9pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free.
Tree lighting ceremony: 3rd December at 5pm to 6:30pm. Plan your visit.
Santa: Yes.
Ice skating: Somerset House (11 minutes walk).
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Recommended tour: Westminster tour and changing of the guard.
Reason to visit: The lighting of the historic Norwegian Christmas tree.
Where to stay: Haymarket Hotel is 3 minutes from the square.
Convenient Hotels
Staying near Trafalgar Square provides easy access to festive events and nearby attractions like the National Gallery and Covent Garden. The West End, known for its theatres and dining options, is also within walking distance. I recommend the Haymarket Hotel in this area.
Recommended Tours
This Westminster tour and changing of the guard is a great place to start.
For something different, try this Secret Old London walking tour or this hugely popular London food tour.
Read my complete guide to the Christmas markets in London.
Head outside the capital to visit some of the Best UK Christmas Markets.
Event Location
Tree Lighting Ceremony
A highlight of Trafalgar Square is the lighting of the Norwegian Christmas tree, an annual gift from Norway to the UK. This iconic tree serves as a thank-you gift from Norway to the UK for the support provided during World War II and has done so since 1947.
The lighting symbolises the enduring friendship between the two nations. The towering Norwegian spruce is referred to as ‘the queen of the forest’ by Norwegian foresters. This tree is over 20 metres high and is aged between 50 and 60 years. It’s selected months or even years in advance from the forests surrounding Oslo.
It remains in Trafalgar Square until just before the Twelfth Night of Christmas, after which it is recycled into mulch.
Food Specialties
- Mulled Wine: A classic festive hot drink made from red wine and spices.
- Mince Pies: Traditional sweet pastry.
- British Cheeses: Available in special holiday gift packages and hampers.
- Chocolates: Handmade chocolates in various shapes and flavours.
- Sausage Rolls: A favourite savoury snack.
- Hot Cider: Made from apple juice and spices.
- Roast Chestnuts: Roasted on-site and served in paper cones.
- Gingerbread: Festive shapes like stars, snowflakes, and houses.
- Pretzels: Salted or sweet.
- Stollen: A German sweet bread filled with dried fruit and marzipan.
- Churros: Spanish pastry with hot chocolate dipping sauce.
- Poffertjes: Mini Dutch pancakes, best enjoyed with butter and icing sugar.
- Hot Chocolate: Optional with whipped cream or marshmallows.
Gifts and Stocking Fillers
- Wool: Scarves, gloves, socks and beanies, knitted from high-quality wool.
- Tea Blends: Available in beautifully designed tins or packages.
- Craft Beer: Small-batch brews from local London breweries.
- Ornaments: Hand-painted, glass-blown or from other materials.
- Spiced Nuts: Candied nuts are available in gift bags or jars.
- Gourmet Food Baskets: An assortment of local goods like cheese, biscuits, chocolates, and drinks.
Sustainability Tips
- Eco-Friendly Accommodation: Choose a hotel that uses renewable energy sources and sustainability measures, such as water-saving appliances and recycling systems.
- Reducing Food Waste: Be mindful of portions that can often be large at the stalls.
- Ethical Consumption: Buy only what you really need or will use, and consider the longevity and utility of the items.
- Sustainable Food: Look for stalls that offer plant-based options.
- Transport: Central London is well connected by public transport, with buses, trains, and the Tube. Walking or cycling is also feasible and allows you to see more of the city while reducing emissions.
Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.
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