Zurich’s Singing Christmas Tree, a unique Advent attraction, draws nearly 2,000 spectators each evening with its choral performances—a tradition that began as a humble display and faced an unexpected challenge from a department store.
Just steps from Bahnhofstrasse, a captivating holiday spectacle unfolds nightly: the singing Christmas tree. Instead of traditional ornaments, this towering structure is adorned with singers sporting vibrant red caps.
Each evening, children’s and gospel choirs from the surrounding region ascend the scaffolded tree to perform beloved Christmas carols, creating a truly immersive and festive experience.
Too Big for a Department Store
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The concept of a singing Christmas tree originated in the United States, where similar performances take place. André Kofmehl brought the idea to Zurich a quarter of a century ago, initially setting it up in front of the Globus department store.
“After eight years, we had grown so large that pedestrian traffic was blocked,” explained Kofmehl on Tuesday during a 7:30 p.m. broadcast. “Globus management informed us that our performances were deterring customers from entering the store, and they requested that we relocate.” Since then, the tree has thrived in a nearby square, complemented by festive lodges in an adjacent parking lot.
More Than 2,000 Spectators Every Evening
For those who participate, climbing the tree is an unforgettable experience. Children from a choir in Pfäffikon shared their excitement: “There are a lot of people, you can see your parents,” “It’s like being on a stage,” and “It’s particularly fun to climb up there.”
Approximately 2,000 people gather at the base of the Zurich Christmas tree each night. The attraction, popular with tourists worldwide, also generates significant buzz on social media. The annual budget for the installation is 80,000 francs, and it requires a team of around 70 employees for logistical support.
