How a tragic explosion in 1917 turned into a Christmas tradition that continues today

Every year, when the city of Boston lights its Christmas tree, it's not just a festive ceremony. The tree that adorns the city center is a symbol of gratitude and friendship, a special gift that comes from the Canadian province of Nova Scotia .

According to Nova Scotia’s official website, this rare tradition has its origins in one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th century in North America: the Halifax Explosion . On December 6, 1917, two ships collided in Halifax Harbour, causing a devastating explosion that killed nearly 2,000 people and left hundreds more seriously injured or homeless. In the days following the tragedy, the city of Boston responded immediately, sending medical aid and emergency supplies to the residents of Nova Scotia. This gesture of solidarity left a deep mark. “We will never forget this support and kindness from the people of Boston. To say thank you, the province presents Boston with a beautiful Christmas tree each year,” says Nova Scotia’s official website. The first “for Boston” tree, as it is known today, was donated in 1971.

Today, this tree also has its own social media profiles, where followers can follow its annual journey from Canada to the United States, turning the tradition into a living story shared with the public.

This year's tree arrived on November 18, marking the 54th anniversary of the annual gift and 108 years of friendship between Boston and Nova Scotia. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu welcomed the tree to the city after traveling to Canada to attend the cutting ceremony. The tree, a 150-foot-tall white spruce, was selected in Lunenburg County.

“To the government and people of Nova Scotia, I am extremely proud and honored to bring you the greetings of the people of Boston and our deep gratitude for this very special gift,” Wu said during the ceremony, according to NBC Boston. “This is a long-standing tradition that we hold very close to our hearts in Boston. I am so happy to be here with my family to visit Nova Scotia for the first time and to witness this very meaningful tradition.”

Thus, a profound tragedy of 1917 was transformed over time into a symbol of hope, solidarity, and friendship that continues to brighten Boston's Christmases today.

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