Christmas trees arrive at St Paul’s Cathedral in 90th year of royal tradition
Christmas trees arrive at St Paul’s Cathedral in 90th year of royal tradition
Last week, His Majesty King Charles III gave St Paul’s Cathedral three Christmas trees from his Windsor Estate to mark the beginning of Advent. This is the 90th year that the monarch has donated trees to the Cathedral.
The royal tradition began in 1934 when King George V gave three large trees from his royal estates to the Cathedral to enhance the festive atmosphere.
Since then, the trees have been a regular feature at the Cathedral, even during the darkest days of the Second World War. Historically, they helped to draw thousands of visitors to contribute significantly to the work of the Cathedral around Christmas in children’s hospitals and poor parishes.
Dean of St Paul’s, the Very Revd Andrew Tremlett, said:
“We are grateful to His Majesty The King for these generous gifts that have become a hallmark of Christmas at St Paul’s Cathedral for ninety years. The trees arrived in time for the start of Advent and our preparations for Christmas. We look forward to welcoming many thousands of worshippers and visitors over the Christmas season as we celebrate the Birth of the Christchild.”
All over 20-feet tall and festooned with lights, the trees serve as a backdrop for the many Christmas services and celebrations taking place in the Cathedral throughout Advent.
Find out more about St Paul’s programme of celebrations and services during Advent and Christmas on our dedicated page.
