Political Committee Leader for Culture, Sports, and Inclusion, at Vestland County Council, Jacob Nødseth, said:

Edinburgh’s Christmas Tree continues to signify our close ties with Norway and remind us of the strength and universal values of friendship, solidarity and compassion. I hope Edinburgh residents and vistors alike will enjoy the opportunity to view this beautiful Christmas Tree in the heart of our city. Now, as then, we strive to ensure Edinburgh is a welcoming, inclusive and tolerant city. Once again we are grateful to the Vestland County Council and the Norwegian Consulate General in Edinburgh for continuing this generous tradition, the first Christmas Tree having been gifted in 1947. Christmas in Scotland’s Capital would be incomplete without the Christmas Tree on The Mound, kindly gifted to us from Norway. It’s fantastic to see the city gearing up for Edinburgh’s Christmas 2023. In 2008 it was decided the tree would be sourced from Scotland, but it remains a cherished gift from Vestland County Council.ĭepute Lord Provost, Lezley Marion Cameron said: The gift signifies thanks from the people of Vestland for the help given by the Scottish people during this time. Upon the invasion of Norway in 1940, more than 7,000 exiles were based in Scotland as the Norwegian Brigade fought to free the country from Nazi occupation. The county of Vestland and Scotland are close neighbours across the North Sea with a shared history, interests and values. The tree, which is gifted by Vestland in Norway to Edinburgh, is the latest in a tradition that has taken place since 1947.

Standing 18 meters tall, as well as illuminating the city centre for the holiday season, the Christmas tree has historical significance. The switch on was led by the Depute Lord Provost Lezley Marion Cameron who was joined by representatives from Edinburgh Candlemakers, the Norwegian Consulate General in Edinburgh and Vestland County Council.

Happy street christmas tree