The tree of our fathers

It took a 675-mile journey, but South Coast Plaza’s holiday tree is finally here. The 96-foot white fir tree was placed into position with a 200-ton crane after arriving at the shopping center Monday morning. And on the way from Mt. Shasta, the drivers of the largest allowable-sized trailer that carried the tree posted Twitter updates from the road.

Those who live in this area know there’s a long standing competition between South Coast Plaza and Fashion Island’s Christmas trees. So, once again, the race is on.

In the next three weeks, the tree will be fireproofed and dressed with 20,000 colored lights.

The public was invited to a tree arrival reception where gingerbread lattes and breakfast pastries were served.

The tree will be lit in a ceremony Nov. 19.