Christmas on Halloween? Arizona’s tallest Christmas tree arrives in Phoenix suburb

PHOENIX — Most people may be getting ready to select the perfect pumpkin for their Halloween jack-o-lantern, but one Phoenix suburb is preparing for a holiday better known for sleigh bells and mistletoe.

Anthem, located on the northern edge of the Phoenix metro area, welcomed the state’s largest Christmas tree on Thursday. It will be on display at the Outlets at Anthem, located near Interstate 17 and Anthem Way.

What traveled over 750 miles, is 80 feet tall and will be covered in 80 strands of LED lights and 5000 ornaments? The tallest Christmas tree in the state! #christmastree #anthemoutlets

A photo posted by Outlets at Anthem (@anthemoutlets) on Oct 20, 2016 at 10:38am PDT

Prior to the tree’s arrival, the Anthem News reported it would be celebrated with a Thursday ceremony that included hot chocolate and a visit from jolly ole’ Saint Nick himself.

The outlet reported it would take a 10-person team to host the four-ton tree.

Though the tree went up on Thursday, it’s branches will remain bare for a time. Anthem News reported the tree will be decked out in all its holiday glory in the coming weeks. It will be officially unveiled during a lighting ceremony on Nov. 12.

Last year’s tree, a 113-foot beauty from northern California, was decorated with 3 miles of lights, 18,000 bulbs and 25,000 bows and ornaments.

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