A beloved Maritime tradition has returned to Barrington, N.S. just in time for the holidays.
On November 21, the municipality lit up their famous Christmas tree—but this isn’t your typical evergreen. Built out of recycled and donated lobster traps, adorned with buoys, and topped off with a lighthouse “star,” the unique design reflects the community’s deep-rooted connection to the sea.
“We’re the lobster capital of Canada, so it makes sense for us that our Christmas tree is made of these traps,” says Suzy Atwood, the director of marketing and tourism development for Barrington.
This year celebrates the tree’s 15-year anniversary, but Atwood says that the idea likely started south of the border in New England in the early 2000s. A resident from Barrington visited an American town with a tree, then brought the idea back home. Many other towns in Nova Scotia have since adopted the tradition, though Barrington can proudly say they were the first.
Beyond its lively appearance, the tree carries deeper meaning for the community. Of the nearly 200 buoys that decorate the tree, many are in memory of fishers lost at sea, fishers who spent their lives on the water, as well as some representing local boats.
“Just like how each lobster boat has its own colour and markings, each buoy has its own story, representing the lives dedicated to the ocean,” says Atwood. “It’s very meaningful.”
This year’s tree lighting also coincided with the start of lobster season—which usually happens on the last Monday of November. “It’s a dual celebration,” says Atwood. “It’s a celebration of Christmas, but we’re also making sure we recognize the importance of the industry and say a blessing for fishers to have a safe and prosperous season.”
And with the lighting of the tree’s crowning jewel—a red-and-white lighthouse—the community celebrates its local industry. “The lighthouse symbolizes a guiding light for those at sea,” says Atwood. “It’s a reminder of strength, hope, and resilience for all of us.”
You can view the tree off the boardwalk on Cape Sable Island, N.S., or take a digital peek on Nova Scotia’s live webcam.
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