Christmas tree lit in Vilnius

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, lit its Christmas tree on 26 November. Thousands of spectators came to see the art installation that plays into the following year’s 700th-anniversary theme and the traditional official holiday launch ceremony, which was finally once again live after the last two years. Bedecked in 700 candles and 700 ornaments, the installation resembles an elegant multi-layered birthday cake, joining Vilnius’ iconic past Christmas tree renditions, said Vilnius City Municipality.

The Christmas tree/birthday cake installation is the fusion of elegance and wintery aesthetic. 25 meters high and 22 meters wide, the tree radiates holiday charm with ten kilometres of garlands and illuminated Baroque-inspired ornaments. Its shape is a mirror of Vilnius’ gastronomic masterpieces: the three white layers are adorned with decorative, brightly lit chandeliers, while the inside hides a golden gem – a tree made of 6,000 fir branches, golden ornaments, glittering garlands, and a blazing topper.