As temperatures dropped to more autumn-like levels on Tuesday, workers started getting the Americana at Brand ready for the holidays, including hoisting a Christmas tree measuring more than 100 feet tall into a prominent spot.
A large flatbed truck carrying a massive white fir all the way from the Mt. Shasta area arrived at the outdoor shopping mall in the early-morning hours.
Crews relied on a crane to prop up the tree, which was selected by a local vendor because of its age.
“We only select trees that have matured, at least 80 years or older, which is the end of the white-fir life span,” said Julie Jauregui, the Americana´s senior general manager “The Americana at Brand is one of the few locations on the West Coast with a tree over 100 feet.
The tree is actually taller than the one displayed at Rockefeller Center in New York City, according to Americana officials.
Now comes the two-week undertaking of dressing it up with 15,000 lights and 10,000 handmade ornaments.
A tree-lighting ceremony will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 19.
A house is also being built where kids can visit St. Nick.
“The magical Santa House is filled with all the traditional elements of Christmas, including a real-bearded Santa and his beloved Santa helpers, who will serve up hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts to enhance the experience,” Jauregui said.
After the holiday season, the tree´s branches will be made into mulch, and the trunk will be cut into firewood. Also, 14 new white firs will be planted in its place at Mt. Shasta.