As December’s chill settles over the Scottish Highlands, the harbor village of Ullapool bursts into color and light, thanks to a tradition that’s as unique as it is heartwarming. For the tenth consecutive year, Ullapool’s residents have transformed their fishing heritage into a dazzling symbol of community spirit: a 30-foot (9-meter) Christmas tree made entirely from repurposed fishing creels. These loaf-shaped pots, usually used to catch shellfish like crabs and langoustines, are stacked high, illuminated by a rainbow of lights, and topped with a star in the shape of a crab. The result? A festive spectacle that draws hundreds of visitors, unites the community, and puts Ullapool firmly on the map as a beacon of creative holiday cheer.
The story of Ullapool’s creel tree began a decade ago, born from a simple desire to brighten the long, dark winter nights. According to BBC, local resident Robert Hicks—once the driving force behind the Loopallu music festival—asked if anything could be done to lift spirits during the bleakest time of year. The answer came in the form of a tree that would celebrate Ullapool’s fishing roots, using the very tools of the trade that have sustained the village for generations.
“At the start we had to beg and borrow stuff,” explained volunteer Gordon Wink to BBC Radio Scotland’s Lunchtime Live. In those early days, the community rallied, scrounging creels wherever they could find them. But as the idea caught on and the tradition grew, lottery funding allowed the volunteers to purchase 340 creels of their own, ensuring the tree’s future and solidifying its place as the centerpiece of Ullapool’s festive season.
The construction of the tree is no small feat. It takes two full days, a dedicated team of volunteers, and support from the harbor, which provides much of the necessary equipment. The creels are carefully stacked on a disc-shaped base, with a timber frame running through the center and weights anchoring the structure against the infamous Highland winds. “We had a storm last week which caused a wee bit of damage,” Gordon admitted, but the community’s resolve is as sturdy as the tree itself. Once assembled, the creels are adorned with thousands of twinkling, multi-colored lights, and a crab-shaped star outlined in white lights crowns the top, a nod to the sea that defines Ullapool’s identity.
But the magic doesn’t stop with the tree’s construction. The lighting ceremony has become a highlight of the village’s calendar, blending maritime tradition with festive excitement. At the appointed moment, CalMac’s Ullapool to Stornoway ferry, MV Loch Seaforth, sounds its horn three times—a signal for the lights to flicker on and the crowd to erupt in cheers. “When the lights are first turned on you think: ‘Oh, that’s quite smart’,” said Gordon, capturing the understated pride that runs through the event.
The creel tree’s appeal stretches far beyond Ullapool’s borders. Each year, hundreds of people gather at the harbor to witness the spectacle. Some, like one dedicated woman from the south of England, travel as much as 500 miles just to be part of the celebration. The tree’s fame has even inspired other coastal towns, such as Oban in Argyll, to build their own creel trees as part of their winter festivities.
Yet, for all its visual splendor, the Ullapool creel tree is about much more than just decoration. According to Mixvale, the project represents a decade of shared effort and local pride, with generations of villagers participating in its creation. Older fishermen donate retired creels, young volunteers help with assembly, and local businesses and schools weave the tree into their own holiday activities. This collaborative approach fosters a deep sense of belonging and strengthens the bonds that tie the community together. The creel tree, as Mixvale notes, “serves as a powerful symbol of community spirit and a creative homage to the village’s deep-rooted maritime heritage.”
Sustainability is another key element of the tradition. Rather than cutting down a tree each year, Ullapool’s residents give new life to old or unused fishing gear, minimizing environmental impact while maximizing festive cheer. This eco-conscious approach has sparked conversations about recycling and repurposing, both within Ullapool and beyond, offering a model for other communities seeking greener ways to celebrate the holidays. The creel tree, in this sense, is more than just an art installation—it’s a statement about resourcefulness and environmental stewardship.
The visual impact of the creel tree is undeniable. Illuminated against the dark winter sky and reflected in the still waters of Loch Broom, it creates a breathtaking scene that has become a magnet for photographers and tourists alike. According to BBC, the event provides a significant boost to local businesses, as visitors flock to Ullapool’s shops, cafes, and accommodations during the holiday season. The tree’s growing reputation as a festive landmark has helped to cement Ullapool’s status as a must-visit destination for those seeking something a little different from the usual Christmas fare.
Looking ahead, the future of Ullapool’s creel tree seems secure. The tradition has become so deeply woven into the fabric of village life that organizers are confident it will continue for many years to come. As Mixvale observes, “the collective enthusiasm and ongoing participation from residents ensure its continuation for many more festive seasons, symbolizing the village’s identity by blending its industrial heritage with a joyful celebration.”
It’s easy to see why the creel tree has captured the hearts of so many. It’s a celebration of Ullapool’s past and present, a beacon of resilience, creativity, and togetherness in the darkest days of winter. As the lights shimmer and the crab-shaped star glows above the harbor, the village’s message is clear: in Ullapool, community spirit shines brightest of all.
