In the heart of Chennai, the holiday season unfurls its magic. Beyond the classic pine and fir, the city is adorned with innovative Christmas trees that not only illuminate the city but also encapsulate the spirit of Christmas — a season of joy, renewal, and the limitless possibilities of festive innovation; a symphony of lights and holiday cheer.

 Here are six unique Christmas trees you can visit this year:

Out of the pot

Christmas tree at Westin Chennai Velachery | Photo Credit: Selva Vinayagan M

The Westin Chennai Velachery has unveiled a terracotta Christmas tree, crafted entirely from earthen pots, painted with red soil and hand-painted ornaments to draw attention to traditional earthenware that is still being used in Indian kitchens. These vessels are recyclable, reminding us of beauty in simplicity. The tree’s pots will be repurposed for planting saplings after the holiday season, and the iron frame that supports the structure will also be repurposed to ensure zero waste. The initiative blends tradition and eco-consciousness: a simple reminder of how celebrations can also care for the planet.

Saplings not trees

Christmas tree at Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Another eco-friendly tree in Chennai stands at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai, and is made of saplings. Guests were encouraged to plant saplings on a custom-built frame in the shape of a Christmas tree. Each sapling will later be planted in the hotel premises and nurtured by the staff. The tree lighting ceremony was attended by guests and patrons who were graced with carols and a festive high-tea. This tree was conceptualised as a celebration of 25 years of hospitality. The hotel also held a festive cake mixing ceremony where guests got to mix nuts, dry fruits and spices to make the Christmas cake.

Built with hope

Christmas tree at Park Hyatt, Chennai | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

At Park Hyatt, Chennai, there is a tree that is built block by block, with hope and cheer. This tree, made with stacked wooden cubes carries the wishes of children from disadvantaged sections of society from Ambedkar Nagar, Poonamallee. Each cube has a card with notes on them, detailing what the kids wish to have for Christmas. For example, kids have wishes for dresses, shoes, books, stationery items, toys and more. Guests can pay for the items or purchase them and leave them on the tree. In the week leading to Christmas, the Park Hyatt team will dress up as Santa Claus and distribute the presents to the kids along with meals to 100 children from the community.

A tapestry of artistry

Christmas tree at ITC Grand Chola | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

One of the grandest trees in the city is at ITC Grand Chola, and this year, it is inspired by the vibrant Athangudi tiles of Chettinad. The intricate tile patterns have been recreated on repurposed wood by Chennai-based artist Rahool Saksena. This initiative highlights traditional craftsmanship while promoting sustainability. The tree is a symbol of the hotel’s ethos of responsible luxury by employing artisans with special abilities. On display through the season, it aims to bridge the past with the present.

Bits and pieces

Christmas tree at Le Royal Méridien  | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Being eco-conscious is the trend of the year, and hopping on this trend is the Le Royal Méridien Chennai, with their sustainable tree. This tree, made with recycled scrap metal, discarded sheets, and repurposed plywood is draped in a monochromatic theme of gold, silver, and white. Not only does it make for a grand centrepiece in the lobby, but it also serves as a constant reminder of the importance of sustainability during the season of giving. 

Traditions upheld

Christmas tree at Santhome  | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

What is a Christmas tree roundup without the traditional tree at the Santhome Basilica. Installed by the team at Santa Stores, Adyar, the tree is a whopping 30 feet in height. The lighting ceremony, which took place on December 17, one week before Christmas Eve, was inaugurated by George Antonysamy, the archbishop of Madras-Mylapore, by invitation of Father Vincent Chinnadurai, the parish priest-rector of Santhome cathedral.