It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Arlington. The Chesapeake Energy Christmas Tree, a 48-foot blue spruce from Marion, Michigan, arrived on a flatbed truck around 10 a.m. Tuesday morning. Soon thereafter, workers and a crane helped raise the 50-year-old tree into a stand right on the steps of City Hall. The 4,500-pound tree was donated by Arlington Christmas Parade Inc.

City leaders said there still a lot to do before the tree is lit up, but it's hard to miss the latest addition towering over Abram Street. Beginning Tuesday, a City crew will spend at least two days decorating the tree with hundreds of ornaments, a lighted star on top and more than 3,000 power conserving LED white lights around it.

"The beautiful Chesapeake Energy Christmas Tree will provide a great deal of enjoyment for children and adults across Arlington, including visitors to our wonderful city," said Joni Wilson, Holiday Lights Parade Co-Director.

In keeping with tradition, the official lighting ceremony will be Saturday, Dec. 1, immediately after the 2012 Decorators Warehouse Holiday Lights Parade. Mayor Robert Cluck has flip-the-switch honors, along with Santa Claus. This year's parade will begin at 6 p.m., with entertainment in various parts of downtown, starting at 4 p.m.

More information about the parade, and a complete list of sponsors, can be found at www.holidaylightsparade.com.