The iconic Christmas tree at Liseberg amusement park in Gothenburg officially illuminated on Friday morning, signaling the start of the holiday season in Sweden's second-largest city. Rescue Mission director Emil Mattsson had the honor of switching on the lights for the massive tree that has become a beloved city landmark.
Mattsson described the tree as an increasingly classic Gothenburg symbol visible across nearly the entire city. The lighting ceremony represents more than just holiday cheer for his organization, which has partnered with Liseberg for this tradition over the past five years.
Christmas presents multiple faces for the Rescue Mission, according to Mattsson. While many celebrate with family and friends, the holiday can be particularly difficult for people experiencing homelessness and poverty. The organization operates meeting places, cafes, and emergency shelters throughout Gothenburg.
For those we meet at our facilities, many would prefer to forget Christmas exists, Mattsson explained. The season reminds them of everything they lack - family to celebrate with, adequate food, friends, and their own home.
Yet Mattsson also noted the positive aspect of the season. Christmas remains the time when people demonstrate the most generosity, recognizing they have what they need and can give extra to voluntary organizations.
Liseberg press communicator Sofia Wikstedt expressed excitement about the tree lighting. The atmosphere in the park becomes wonderfully special when the tree glows, she said. The park appreciates its partnership with the Rescue Mission, whose work aligns with spreading light in the community.
The Christmas star was already installed atop the Atmosfear tower in early September, but Friday's ceremony officially launched the park's holiday season, which begins in earnest this weekend. While some reports suggested the tree was briefly lit during testing on Thursday morning, Wikstedt confirmed the official lighting occurred Friday.
Mattsson reflected on the symbolic importance of light during Sweden's darkest time of year. In the darkest of days, we need light the most, he said. For us, light represents hope that things are never completely hopeless, whether for an individual person or for the world at large.
The Liseberg Christmas tree lighting represents one of Sweden's most anticipated holiday traditions, drawing visitors from across the country. The amusement park transforms into a winter wonderland each year with markets, rides, and seasonal treats. This annual ceremony marks the psychological beginning of the holiday season for many Gothenburg residents, much like the Rockefeller Center tree lighting in New York City.
Sweden's approach to Christmas combines religious traditions with secular celebrations, and public lightings like Liseberg's help combat the extreme darkness of Scandinavian winters. The partnership with humanitarian organizations also reflects the Swedish value of jantelagen, or collective wellbeing, during what can be a challenging season for vulnerable populations.
The tree will remain lit throughout the holiday season, serving as a beacon of light and hope in central Gothenburg until early January when the Christmas celebrations conclude.