The GRIDmas Tree is a fully programmable Christmas tree with 1,000 RGB LEDs. Every light has a 3D coordinate, so we can paint patterns and animations that wrap around the whole tree in three-dimensional space.
The idea started with Standup Maths' 500-LED tree—his video is a great watch—and grew into something bigger: a tree with an easy-to-use API and web editor. Now anyone can design and test patterns without needing to be an expert coder.
Created by Ciaran Cook in 2023, the tree became a friendly competition at Heriot-Watt University in 2024. This year a new API, better tools, and clear docs make it even easier to join in. Documentation is a team effort from Ciaran and Owen so you have everything you need in one place.
You don't need to know code. Think of the tree as a canvas of tiny bulbs you can color and animate. Explore patterns, tweak colors, and see the tree react in real time.
Ready to join the competition? Start with the docs, try the web editor, and experiment in the playground. You can build patterns in Python, preview them, and submit them for your chance to win a prize.
Whether you're here for the glow or to push the tech further, we're excited to see what you build. Dive into the resources below to start creating.