A Red Bank family?s blue spruce tree has been selected as the town?s official holiday tree this year.

The blue spruce was originally purchased to commemorate the birth of Luba and Val DeFazio?s daughter Marissa for her first Christmas 28 years ago. The tree, which now stands 25-feet tall, has sentimental value to the DeFazios, but they are happy to donate it to the community.

?When my husband said they had chosen it, I was a little upset,? said Val DeFazio. ?But then I was happy other people will enjoy it.?

The DeFazios will help light the tree on Nov. 28. More than 5,000 people are expected in Red Bank to join in all the holiday festivities.