Tallest Christmas tree in Arizona goes up in Anthem

ANTHEM, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Early this morning like in year's past, the largest Christmas tree in the state of Arizona arrived in Anthem.

"It's just something really fun to watch and I just think that this portion of the event is really special," Christina Henning said. "It's not as publicized as the tree lighting concert, but it's kind of that secret thing that happens in Anthem that happens really early in the season, but it's super fun to watch."

The now-17-year-old Valley tradition brings families together in the community -- who couldn't think of a better way to kickoff the most wonderful time of the year!

"For probably 10 years, now we've heard the helicopters come and we're like ,'What is that?', and then we come over and the kids get so excited," Jennifer McCabe said. "We usually drink hot chocolate, eat cinnamon rolls, play Christmas music right when they're waking up, and come over and see Santa and start our holiday season October 25."

Besides seeing the Christmas carolers, Santa and all his elves, the real sight to see stood 80 feet tall as it was lowered into its stand.

It's a Valley tradition, and also a family tradition, that continues to live on.

"Seeing the Christmas tree and seeing all the decorations getting put up," McCabe said. "Seeing the kids' smiles on their faces and getting to see Santa and kicking off the holiday season."