The second Annual Festival of Trees helped set the tone for Christmas in Jim Thorpe.

The festival kicked off the season Thursday at Memorial Park on 10th Street. There are 60 trees this year around the park, each decorated for a cause or group.

The Jim Thorpe Bicycle Team tree was lit up in red, white, and blue lights and photos of the team adorned the tree.

Tamaqua Transfer sponsored a tree with a snowman head topper and little trash can ornaments.

Jim Thorpe Neighborhood Bank’s used artificial money as ornaments on their tree.

Local churches like Christ United Church of Christ, St. Mark’s & St. John’s Episcopal Church, and St. Joseph Catholic Church all had trees.

Groups like the Germantown Club, the Mauch Chunk Rod & Gun Club, and Jim Thorpe Rotary sponsored trees. Individuals and families also sponsored trees in honor loved ones.

“It’s great for the community,” Jim Thorpe Mayor Michael Sofranko said.

Caitlin and Joe Alizieri and Susan Alizieri from Jim Thorpe agreed.

“This is a nice thing that they do,” Joe said. “It’s really neat for the town.”

Olympian Booster Club Elite Cheerleading Squad did a short Christmas dance routine.

At 6 p.m., Santa Claus arrived, escorted by the Jim Thorpe Police, greeting the children and lighting the lights around the flagpole.

Sofranko took a moment to thank the Festival of Trees Committee and businesses who made the event possible.

Several local organizations sold refreshments. D.J. Monroe provided Christmas music.

“We thank you for being here,” Sofranko said. “We ask you to enjoy the trees, enjoy the music; but, most importantly, enjoy the company of each other as the holiday season comes around.”