Every December, a towering Norwegian spruce takes center stage in Trafalgar Square marking the beginning of the season. But did you know it’s more than just a Christmas tradition? Since 1947, Norway has gifted this tree to the UK as a heartfelt gesture of gratitude for Britain’s support during World War II - a symbol of enduring friendship between the two nations.
“Ever Oslo”
This year’s tree is truly special. Standing at an impressive 20 metres tall and around 65 years old, it was carefully chosen by forestry experts and even voted on through a social media poll. The winning tree has been given a name: “Ever Oslo” - a nod to its roots and the spirit of togetherness it represents.
The felling ceremony in Norway was attended by Westminster’s Lord Mayor, Paul Dimoldenberg, and Oslo’s Mayor, Anne Lindboe, who also joined the festive lights switch-on in London on Thursday, 4 December. As the lights sparkled to life, they illuminated not just a tree, but a tradition steeped in history and goodwill.
The story in short
In April 1940, Germany invaded Norway. King Haakon, his son, Crown Prince Olav, and the Norwegian government, managed to escape, eventually arriving at the heavily bombed, west coast town of Molde in Norway where Captain Pegram, skipper of HMS Glasgow, had received orders to go and embark the King, the Crown Prince, the Norwegian government, and a consignment of state gold. London became a base of resistance effort during the war.
How our DFDS colleagues carry on the treasured tradition
And how does “Ever Oslo” make its way from Norway to London? DFDS is once again proudly delivering the tree across the North Sea.
As it traverses highways and boards our ferry, the majestic tree drizzles a bit of history and Christmas cheer on our customers and on our colleagues, who are continuing our proud tradition to ensure this special cargo makes it across the sea.
On 21st November, it was the true start of the festive season as Mikael Närman from Logistics and I joined the felling ceremony of “Ever Oslo,” which kicked off a 1,300 km journey – one that reflects sustainability and friendship,” says Lars Kristian Haugen, Ferry Norway
Tradition has it that, as the spruce rests on the deck of FICARIA SEAWAYS on its way to the UK, our colleagues bring out some of the Christmas decorations and put it on the tree, shares captain Lars Skjold-Hansen. This year, he was not on duty for the departure of “Ever Oslo” but he still got a chance to see it off at the terminal in Gothenburg.
Christmas is a season of traditions, and we are proud to help keep one alive,” says Captain Skjold-Hansen
Keeping it green
For the second time in our year-long tradition, the transportation of the tree was also a chance to showcase our decarbonised solutions:
Our electric truck powered the 165 km journey from Oslo to Brevik, replacing a conventional diesel truck.
The final 288 km from Immingham to London was managed by an external logistics partner – but this year, the last leg of the journey was also electric powered.
