First Baptist Church Christmas Tree Lot Opens

Jae Williams spent Friday around 40 teenagers and many more Christmas trees.

Williams, who is the youth director of First Baptist Church, and his volunteers unloaded about 700 trees in preparation for the church's annual Christmas Tree Lot. Trees go on sale this afternoon at 2 p.m., Williams said.

The lot has been around for six years. Based on that experience, Williams suggests that people act fast.

"We usually sell out two weeks before Christmas," he said, "but this is the first time we've had this many trees."

The Fraser Firs came from Boone, N.C. Williams said the large order was more of a statement than a response to growing demand.

"We felt like it was time that we became an actual Christmas tree lot," Williams said. "In other words, it was time that we actually said to the community that we actually can take care of you."

Prices range from $20 to $55, Williams said. Heights range 5 to 10 feet.

"(The money) goes to our youth department and goes toward scholarships," he said. "It's amazing."

The lot is open every day except Tuesdays. Regular hours are:

• 12:30 to 7 p.m. on Sundays

• 1 to 9 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays

• 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays