Jim Thorpe will kick off its first “Trees in the Park” program with a lighting ceremony Thursday night at 6 p.m. in Memorial Park.

Trees, provided by Walker Tree Farm in Lehighton, were made available for purchase by individuals, families, groups or organizations and decorating began early this week.

The program, similar to those in surrounding towns such as Palmerton and Lehighton, has been in the works in Jim Thorpe for several years. While the COVID-19 pandemic made it challenging for organizers to get it off the ground several years ago, the festivities are finally ready to begin.

“We wanted to revisit that idea and I think it’s just a great chance for everyone to get together around the holiday season,” Mayor Michael Sofranko said. “Whether someone buys a tree to bring attention to a certain cause or they are remembering a loved one who may no longer be with us, it brings the community together and we’ll have the chance to see a lot of beautifully decorated trees.”

Borough council president and event committee member Greg Strubinger said he’s happy to see the event get off the ground.

“We are thankful to everyone who helped get this started and we’re excited for tree lighting ceremony on Thursday,” Strubinger said. “All are welcome to help start a new tradition in Jim Thorpe and hopefully this will continue to showcase our beautiful Memorial Park.”

Opting to smart small and hopefully grow the program in future years, the event committee made 40 trees available for purchase in 2022. Each 4-foot tree cost $45.

“We promoted it on the borough website and on social media and we’re really off to a great start for our first year,” committee member Tammy Lombardo-Schatz said last month.

Vendors will be on site at the ceremony offering items such as hot chocolate and small food items available for purchase.

The Festival of Trees committee includes Sofranko, Lombardo-Schatz, Joe Schatz, Rose and Greg Strubinger, Mike Yeastedt, Joanne Klitsch, Betty Lou McBride and Ted and Lori LaRizzio.