ENID, OK —The world’s tallest fresh-cut Christmas tree is once again returning to northcentral Oklahoma, specifically downtown Enid, just in time for the most wonderful time of the year.

Named the “Christ Tree,” the 140-foot fir with its 20,000 multi-colored lights and 10,000 ornaments will become the beacon of the season during the second annual 40-day multi-event Christmas celebration called The One. The One will kick off with an opening night, and tree lighting ceremony in conjunction with Enid Lights Up the Plains parade and fireworks show on Nov. 25. Festivities will begin at 6:15 p.m., with the tree lighting ceremony to follow. The event is free and open to the public.

“Last year, The One’s opening night and Enid Lights Up the Plains brought more than 30,000 people together to experience the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and that, in itself, is an answered prayer,” said Kyle Williams, founder of The One and president of Hammer-Williams Co. “I truly believe this tree is a reminder of the Lord’s greatness and faithfulness, and it’s an honor to be able to share the love of Christ with the Enid community and beyond.”

This year’s chosen Christ Tree will journey 2,000 miles from California’s Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Once in Enid, it will be decorated and surrounded by 12 smaller trees. The 40-day Christmas celebration will feature concerts, activities, events and more. Adjacent to the Christ Tree, families can spend time at the popular “Holidays on Ice” outdoor skating rink hosted by Main Street Enid and Stride Bank Center.

“It’s truly a sight to be seen,” Enid Mayor George Pankonin said. “The excitement for the Christmas season has picked up where it left off last year. Many travelers from across Oklahoma and many other states have already made plans to visit Enid to be part of rejoicing with us this winter.”

New this year, the world’s largest Christian music radio networks, positive and encouraging K-LOVE, and Air1 wor- ship are now partnering with The One, as well as Williams Media Group. Longtime K-LOVE DJ Scott Smith will emcee opening night with KOFM/KGWA Radio DJ Alan Clepper as co-emcee.

“The One wouldn’t be possible without our amazing community, volunteers and sponsors,” Pankonin said. “A special thanks to presenting sponsors Jiffy Trip and Takkion, as well as to the many other sponsors who make it their mission to bring the world’s tallest tree to the heart of Enid and to offer a truly memorable experience for people of all ages.”

For more information about The One or the tree lighting ceremony, please visit www. theoneenid.com.