The Christmas tree on the Grote Markt in Groningen is shrouded in darkness this weekend. During the night from Friday to Saturday, unknown persons pulled out the wiring, causing the lights in the tree to go out.
It will only be determined on Monday whether the lights can be turned on again. Louis van der Tuin of the Groningen City Club is very disappointed that the Christmas tree in front of the town hall did not survive the Friday evening and night unscathed. “It’s really shit. Very unfortunate at the weekend. Tomorrow is also shopping Sunday.”
Christmas trees are often plagued by vandalism
Re-igniting the lights in the tree is not easy. “We can’t do anything about it. It will be looked at on Monday.”
The Christmas tree on the Grote Markt has also been plagued by vandalism in previous years. Even then, the tree was displayed unlit several times. The Christmas tree was placed last Friday. “We already thought: things will go well this time, but not.”
Van der Tuin knows that the illuminated Christmas tree can be a target. There is already a fence around it. There really isn’t much more that can be done. “You can’t prevent it.” Van der Tuin hopes that the Christmas tree will be illuminated again on Monday and can be admired.