It’s often billed as the unofficial start to London’s Yuletide. The lighting ceremony of the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree, which takes place in a few days’ time, isn’t the first of the season.b But when they go on, they certainly concentrate a few minds – for only the most Scrooge-like of curmudgeons would complain they are too early.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of this iconic event. And each year thousands of people come into Westminster to see it take place. Indeed, far from diminishing (if we put lockdown years aside) this wonderful festive treat has only grown in stature. And this year – perhaps more than most – is particularly special. To understand why, we must delve into history to learn how this tradition began.
