As part of this year’s celebration, the tree is now adorned with claybells, ball string lights, about 1,800 LED strips, and a 40kg neon star.

The festival experience extends beyond the tree. A 350m stretch of road leading to the Veli Ground is lined with arches, stars and festive hangings, turning the approach itself into part of the celebration.

“We must thank Nixon Jose Antony — a brother to the group — whose encouragement during the early years helped us sustain the effort. He is now a police officer, but continues to guide in spirit,” says Sanoj.

The festival has no business motives, he adds. “Members of Knights United — including daily wagers — do the decorations by taking leave from their jobs. We don’t have any big title sponsors or funders. It’s a typical middle-class festival for middle-class people.”

The ‘lights on’ ceremony will be held on Christmas day, with actor Soubin Shahir, and local socio-political figures expected to be in attendance.
Cultural programmes will be held on a daily basis, culminating in New Year celebrations on January 1.

The organisers urge visitors to park vehicles at least 100m away from the venue to avoid congestion in the neighbourhood.