It may have been cold and rainy, but that didn't stop Santa from coming to kick off the 33rd annual Olde Time Christmas Celebration in Jim Thorpe on Friday evening.

The event, held in the Josiah White Park in the center of town, was filled with dozens of families waiting to see Jolly Ol' Saint Nick, as well as honor one of their own, Corporal Michael Dugan.The Olde Time Christmas committee chose Dugan because they wanted to honor one of the many Pennsylvania State Police who serve this area and keep families safe.As the night began, carolers from Therapy Options warmed the hearts of many as they sang prior to Santa's arrival. Katya Fitzpatrick of Blue Ridge TV-13 served as the master of ceremonies.Commissioner William O'Gurek thanked everyone for braving the rain to come out to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season.He also recognized Dugan's dedication to the people and to the community.Once Santa arrived, he handed off the honor of pressing the button to light the Christmas tree to Dugan. The crowd then began counting down.Following the lighting, Santa then made his way into the Old Mauch Chunk Train Station, where he welcomed children.Olde Time Christmas will now continue for the next two weekends throughout town.Randall Sellers, chairman of the Olde Time Christmas Planning Committee, said that the event is a way to keep the traditions of the holiday season alive."We all remember being kids and the fun that comes with Christmas," he said. "We do it for the community and the children and also to celebrate the season of Christmas."