Vilnius Christmas Tree 2025 Photo: Mantas GudzinevičiusThe festive season in the European Capital of Christmas 2025 officially opened, with thousands gathering in a sparkling Vilnius to celebrate as the city's Christmas tree was lit. Vilnius was named Capital of Christmas by the European Parliament's Christmas Cities Network in large part thanks to its iconic Christmas trees, which have become internationally renowned. The Vilnius Christmas tree was ranked first by European Best Destinations for two consecutive years.
Every year, Vilnius adopts an original theme for its Christmas tree that sets trends, with past themes including fairytales, birthday cakes, and clocks. This year's tree embraces a traditional aesthetic featuring red and gold colors, resonating with a growing desire for nostalgia and authenticity during the holidays.
In PwC's 2025 Holiday Outlook, survey respondents mentioned a wish to return to tradition amid economic uncertainty, with rituals and meaningful experiences prioritized even if holiday spending decreases.
"This is a special Christmas for Vilnius as we are the European Christmas Capital and the European Green Capital. Our tree this year sends a message to the whole continent that this is the season for genuine emotion and quality time. Joyful moments spent together are the most precious Christmas gifts we can have, and this stunning natural spruce, decorated in an original and classical way featuring red and gold colors, will create many of these moments for residents and visitors alike," said Mayor of Vilnius, Valdas Benkunskas.
Vilnius Christmas Tree 2025 Photo: Domantas Kancleris
An authentic 205-square-meter installation that is 20 meters high
With the Old Town of the city adorned in sparkling lights and forest-inspired motifs, revellers gathered in the Cathedral Square for the unveiling of this year's 20-meter Christmas tree, decorated with 25,000 warm white LED lights and 400 ornaments, showcasing an authentic, timeless aesthetic.
Visitors can enjoy the tree from a purpose-built, 3-meter-high viewing platform before exploring the surrounding Christmas market.
The entire structure for the Vilnius Christmas tree covers 205 square meters. It includes a platform, reminiscent of stepping onto a red carpet, allowing visitors to walk along it and take photographs. This platform stands 3 meters high and extends 17 meters in width.
For the 3rd consecutive year, the tree itself is a natural spruce, donated to the city by residents of Vilnius District.
