For the people of Ullapool, a picturesque fishing village in the Scottish Highlands, the countdown to Christmas is marked not by a traditional fir tree but by a towering structure made entirely of fishing creels.
For ten years, this vibrant display has stood as a unique celebration of the community’s maritime identity—an eyecatching beacon of colour and creativity in the dark winter months. Each winter, hundreds of the loaf-shaped creels, traditionally used to catch crabs and langoustines, are transformed into a 30ft (9m) illuminated tree.
The initiative is organised by the Ullapool Fire and Light Fund, a community group that has led the effort since its inception. What began as a hopeful idea has grown into a cherished seasonal landmark, drawing fascination from visitors and pride from locals.
The project’s origins trace back to Robert Hicks, a well-known figure in the village and organiser of the Loopallu music festival, which ran for 15 years until 2019.
According to volunteer Gordon Wink, the idea emerged when Hicks wondered whether something could be done to “brighten up the dark nights” of winter. It was then suggested that Ullapool embrace its fishing heritage by constructing a tree using creels—an idea that quickly resonated with residents.
“In the early days, we had to beg and borrow whatever creels we could find,” Wink recalled during an interview with BBC Radio Scotland’s Lunchtime Live. But with time, and crucial support from lottery funding, the volunteers were able to purchase 340 creels of their own.
These pots now form the backbone of the display, stacked meticulously each year into a towering festive sculpture. Building the tree has become a major community effort. “It takes two full days to build with help from volunteers, and the harbour provides us with lots of the equipment,” Wink said.
The structure begins with a disc-shaped base, anchored by a timber frame running up the centre and heavy weights to ensure stability—an important precaution in the often-wild Highland weather.
This year was no exception. “We had a storm last week which caused a wee bit of damage,” Wink noted, though the volunteers were quick to repair and continue preparations. Once the frame is secure, creels are stacked layer by layer, creating the tree’s distinctive texture and shape.
Multicoloured Christmas lights are then wrapped throughout the structure, bringing it to life after sunset. One of the most anticipated moments each year is the placement of the tree’s “star”—a glowing outline of a crab fashioned from white lights.
The symbol not only tops off the display but also pays tribute to the fishing traditions that have shaped Ullapool’s identity for generations. This lively touch reflects the village’s pride in its roots and its commitment to preserving cultural heritage through creative expression.
Adding to the enchantment is a special role played by the Ullapool to Stornoway ferry. The MV Loch Seaforth, illuminated in the harbour, often becomes part of the backdrop when the creel tree is switched on, contributing to the festive scene admired by locals and visitors alike.
The ferry’s lights shimmering across the water complement the vibrant glow of the creels, turning the harbour into a postcard-perfect winter landscape. The creel tree has become more than a decorative display—it stands as a testament to community spirit, resilience, and resourcefulness.
In a time when many rural traditions face challenges, Ullapool’s annual creation serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration and cultural pride. As the village gathers once again to celebrate the festive season, the creel tree shines brightly, symbolising both heritage and hope amid the long northern nights.
