BOSTON -- Six weeks before Christmas, a massive Douglas fir was hoisted up in Downtown Crossing symbolizing the start of the holiday season.

Can Christmas Tree Boost Holiday Spirit?

But, NewsCenter 5's Gail Huff reported, with the economic crisis, it could be a very lean holiday season for many residents and companies.

"This tree will make a hundred thousand people get into the Christmas spirit," said one tree handler.

And getting into the holiday spirit may prove more difficult this year. On Tuesday, the owner of historic Faneuil Hall said it may have to file for bankruptcy.

"Everybody is feeling it. I think when the time comes and I start shopping. I will just play it by ear and be careful," said Carrie Spagnuolo.

"It doesn’t seem it will impact me, but I feel sorry for everyone else because it will impact the rest of the country," said Susan Wells.

The Downtown Crossing tree is said to be one of the tallest Christmas trees in the country.