This year’s advent season in Prague’s Old Town Square will be graced by a magnificent 24-meter-tall spruce tree from the Liberec Region. The tree, selected from nearly forty entries in the “Hledá se strom” (Looking for a Tree) contest organized by Taiko, has a story as captivating as its towering presence.
The Selection: A Tree with a Story
The spruce from Pertoltice near Mimoň on the Českolipsko was chosen for its impressive stature and symbolic significance. The owner of the land, Radek Lupoměský, entered the tree into the competition, driven by a desire not to see it merely cut down and burned. “I often looked at it and thought it could still bring joy in Prague or elsewhere,” Lupoměský shared.
A Half-Century of Growth
The tree, expertly felled by lumberjack Jiří Vorlíček, who has been cutting trees for Prague for twelve years, was estimated to be around 50 years old. Vorlíček noted the tree’s excellent health and symmetrical growth, ensuring it would fulfill its role splendidly in the Old Town Square.
Preparation and Transport: A Logistical Feat
The cutting and transportation of the tree were managed by the company Technologie hlavního města Prahy. The actual cutting was quick, but preparing the tree to fit precisely into the anchoring pit at Old Town Square was more labor-intensive. The tree, weighing 4.7 tons before processing, was carefully secured onto a special trailer pulled by a traditional American Kenworth truck for its journey to Prague.
A Spectacular Display Awaits
Upon its arrival at Old Town Square, the tree will be adorned with a record 8.5 kilometers of light chains, hundreds of Christmas balls, and fifty light stars. This preparation aims to have the tree ready for the lighting ceremony on Friday before the advent markets.
After the Holidays: A Sustainable Future
After serving its purpose, the tree’s branches will find a new home in the Prague Zoo, while the trunk will be sawn into planks for vocational education, aiding in furniture making. This ensures that the tree’s legacy extends beyond the festive season, contributing to education and animal welfare.
A Symbol of Unity and Celebration
The Christmas tree at Prague’s Old Town Square is more than a mere holiday decoration; it’s a symbol of unity, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate the season’s spirit. As the tree stands tall amidst the historic buildings, it becomes a focal point for both locals and tourists, creating a sense of community and shared joy.
The Art of Decoration: Crafting a Winter Wonderland
The process of decorating the tree is an art in itself. The team responsible for adorning the tree with lights and ornaments works tirelessly to ensure that every detail is perfect. The result is a breathtaking display that lights up the square and brings the magic of Christmas to life.
The Lighting Ceremony: A Festive Highlight
One of the most anticipated moments of the advent season is the lighting ceremony of the Christmas tree. This event draws large crowds, eager to witness the moment the lights are switched on, signaling the official start of the holiday festivities in Prague. The ceremony is often accompanied by music, performances, and a palpable sense of excitement.
Environmental Consciousness: A Sustainable Approach
In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability, especially regarding holiday decorations. The decision to repurpose the tree after the holidays reflects a commitment to environmental consciousness. By giving the tree a second life, whether in the zoo or as material for education, the organizers are setting an example of responsible and sustainable celebration.
The Legacy of the Tree: Beyond the Festive Season
The story of the Christmas tree doesn’t end with the holiday season. Its branches, which will be used in the Prague Zoo, will provide enrichment for the animals. The trunk, transformed into planks for furniture making, will aid in the education of future craftsmen. This multifaceted afterlife of the tree ensures that its impact is felt long after the lights have dimmed.