The program featured Penelope Chrysikou from London, mother of 11-year-old Erietta Karamountzou, who will recite a poem at the Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Trafalgar Square. (The photo, provided by the BBC, shows the tree being set up in the square.)
According to Ms. Chrysikou, London’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony has been held for 77 years on the first Thursday of December. This year, it will take place on December 5, 2024. The tree is a gift from the city of Oslo, a tradition since 1947, symbolizing deep and lasting friendship and gratitude for British assistance during World War II, when the Norwegian government and royal family lived in exile in London.
During the official ceremony, a poem is read each year by three students. This year, one of them will be the young Greek, Erietta, who, as her mother noted, is thrilled to participate.