In a festive development, a massive Norway spruce that is set to become this year’s Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center has begun its journey to New York City from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts.

The impressive 74-foot (23-meter) tree was felled early Thursday morning and carefully loaded onto a flatbed truck using a crane. This towering conifer will be transported over a distance of 140 miles (225 kilometers) to the heart of Manhattan, where it is scheduled to be put in place on Saturday. Once assembled, the tree will be adorned with an astounding 50,000 vibrant lights and topped with a glimmering Swarovski star, remaining on display for the public until mid-January.

This year marks a special occasion as it is the first Rockefeller Center Christmas tree selected from Massachusetts in over six decades—since 1959, to be exact. The majestic spruce has become a focal point of interest in West Stockbridge, attracting both locals and tourists who have gathered to catch a glimpse of the 11-ton (10-metric ton) giant as preparations were made for its journey.

Onlookers came out in droves, some playfully dressed in Santa Claus outfits, to watch as workers carefully brought the tree down on Thursday morning. Behind a safety barrier, a crowd of spectators snapped photos and recorded videos of the momentous occasion. Meanwhile, members of the family who generously donated the tree spoke to the media about the honor of contributing to such a beloved holiday tradition.