The quirky trend of building Christmas trees from repurposed lobster traps is sweeping across New England, drawing tourists, Instagrammers, and even engaged couples. What started as a local expression of maritime culture has quickly become a widespread spectacle, with at least 20 of these structures now adorning the coasts of Maine, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
The Rise of Nautical Christmas Displays
These trees, constructed from stacked lobster traps and decorated with buoys, fishing nets, and festive lights, have become a popular backdrop for holiday photos and proposals. The appeal is clear: they’re visually striking, unique to the region, and tap into the preppy, coastal aesthetic that many New Englanders embrace. Towns are seeing an influx of visitors specifically to photograph these unusual displays.
Unexpected Challenges Emerge
However, the growing popularity has brought unexpected logistical and safety concerns. Maintaining these structures requires significant effort, and organizers are grappling with issues such as preventing people from climbing on them. In Hull, Massachusetts, a privately built lobster trap tree was temporarily shut down by the building commissioner due to structural instability. The tree, erected in a municipal park, lacked a designated entrance, raising safety questions about public access.
The sudden popularity has exposed the need for clear regulations and maintenance protocols to ensure these displays remain safe and accessible.
Why This Matters
The lobster trap tree phenomenon underscores a broader trend: the commodification of local culture for tourism and social media. While these displays bring economic benefits to coastal communities, they also highlight the tension between preserving authenticity and managing rapid growth. The incident in Hull serves as a reminder that even the most whimsical traditions can face bureaucratic hurdles and safety concerns when scaled up.
The lobster trap tree trend is likely to continue evolving, forcing New England towns to balance the charm of these unique structures with the practicalities of public safety and long-term maintenance.
