Every year, just before the close of the old year, we announce the theme for the next. This has become a Between the Trees tradition!
As many of you will already know, the 2024 theme was Gratitude. It was a year filled with heartfelt moments and reflections as people took time to appreciate what they were thankful for. One standout installation was the beautiful Gratitude Tree, crafted by Freya. It was a space where people lingered, engaged, and felt the powerful bond of community.
Between the Trees extends deep gratitude to everyone who attended, supported, and helped make the event so special—from the teams that worked tirelessly behind the scenes to the individuals who brought their unique touches and moments of joy.
Now, as we look forward, a strong theme has emerged for 2025: Tradition. It’s a theme that resonates on many levels—as individuals, within families, among friends, and across communities both locally and globally.
Take a moment to reflect: what traditions hold meaning for you? This time of year, is significant for many, filled with activities that bring us together and remind us of the past while shaping the future.
Do you run into the sea on a freezing cold Boxing Day? Visit long-missed friends and family? Attend a carol service or share a festive meal with colleagues? Or perhaps you prefer to enjoy a warm, sunny climate, hit the ski slopes, or host a grand Christmas feast with all the trimmings?
Bringing a spruce tree indoors and adorning it with shining baubles and lights is just one of many cherished traditions. For others, the holiday season is a time of work, providing cheer and care in hospitals, care homes, and the hospitality sector.
Let’s also pause to remember those without family or friends who look back on traditions of earlier years with fondness, as well as those who face bereavement, illness, or changed circumstances. Some people embrace this season as a time to give—through time, resources, or simple acts of kindness.
Christmas and the Winter Solstice invite reflection, sharing, and the spirit of welcoming others, no matter their background or circumstances. It’s about looking forward, not just back, and finding ways to include and uplift those who may need it most.
Welsh traditions are deeply rooted in these values of inclusion and community. From the Eisteddfod, a celebration of Welsh arts and culture, to the Nos Galen Boxing Day road race from Llanwonno to Pontypridd, and the Mari Lwyd on January 13th, where a decorated “horse” challenges households to a playful battle of song and wit (with the loser inviting Mari in for a celebratory drink!), these customs showcase the unique blend of heritage, fun, and togetherness.
In 2025, Between the Trees will explore local and national myths, legends, and traditions of Cymru and beyond. We’d love to hear about your own traditions, no matter where you’re from.
Together, let’s also think about how we can create new traditions—rooted in the old but with a fresh twist—to carry forward.
What do you think? We’re excited to hear from you!
Nadolig Llawen
Dawn, Andrew, Meg and the BTT Team