Editor's note: This article first appeared in Sun Life Magazine, a Daily Independent publication.

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For the 23rd consecutive year, Outlets North Phoenix in Anthem will be home to the state’s tallest fresh-cut Christmas tree, and the tree arrives soon.

The 70-something foot tree arrives at the Outlets via a 40-foot flatbed truck on Friday, Nov. 8 and be ushered into place by none other than Santa Claus himself. The lighting will take place on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Located at 4250 W. Anthem Way in north Phoenix, the Outlets are located off I-17, just 15 minutes north of the loop 101. The complex features more than 60 shops.

More than 1.5 miles of LED lights, approximately 10,000 bulbs, will illuminate the tree, and 5,000 ornaments and bows will adorn it.

Each year the tree is topped with a three-foot tall copper star, a nod to the state’s official metal. When completely decorated, the tree will weigh close to four tons.

After arrival at the Outlets North Phoenix a team of experts will spend two weeks – and more than 120 hours – using boom lifts to shape and decorate the tree.

To ensure the tree is kept fresh all season long, it is housed in a custom-made seven-foot deep well and sprayed with nearly 120 gallons of fire retardant. Six industrial guy-wires hold the tall tree in place and stabilize it during windy weather.

A look at a previous tree at Outlets North Phoenix, which annually hosts the state’s tallest fresh-cut Christmas tree.

(Photo provided by Outlets North Phoenix)