Nesquehoning organizations are banding together to bring a fun night with music that will help cover costs for the upcoming Nesquehoning 202nd and America 250th anniversary celebrations next year.

The Nesquehoning Recreation Commission is opening its doors for “An Evening with Nick Polito” on Oct. 18. Approximately 200 tickets will be sold for the event, with ticket sales happening now, as well as at the door the night of the event if tickets remain.

Pam Zlock of the Nesquehoning Recreation Commission, said that the idea came about after a conversation with Polito’s cousin, Nesquehoning native Joe Pilla.

Polito was in town visiting with his father and the parties met to discuss what they could do to help the town, as well as help Polito’s rising artist career.

“We had talked at one of our very first Pennsylvania250 meetings about having some kind of concert,” Zlock said, noting that the recreation center used to be known for being a place of music “We wanted to bring it back but everything we had looked at wasn’t feasible for us. But then we talked to Nick.”

Pilla said that when his cousin was more than happy to partner together to help the Nesquehoning community.

“When I found out he was breaking into the music industry, and I know his musical skills, I said ‘Nick, why don’t you come up here to the Poconos and Jim Thorpe area’ and here we are,” Pilla said.

Polito visited, met with the recreation commission and even did an interview on Froggy 101 in the Wilkes-Barre area.

“He may not have Luke Bryan status, but people are starting to listen to him because he’s really good,” Pilla said, noting that he does everything from cover songs to his own creations and is considered Americana country.

Preparations for the upcoming concert have been underway ever since, with Pilla and Zlock working to advertise the event.

Zlock said that the concert will take place from 7 to 10 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m.; and a small concession stand will be available to those in attendance; however, the event is BYOB for alcoholic beverages.

In addition, there will be a small basket raffle at the event.

Tickets are $15 with the majority of the funds raised going toward the upcoming festival planned for June.

“We’re trying to get people more aware of what is coming for the America 250th celebration,” Zlock said, adding that it could include fireworks and even possibly a free outdoor concert by Polito if he is available.

For now, tickets for the Oct. 18 event can be purchased by calling Pilla at the ETA Insurance Office, or Zlock at 570-926-9389; or by visiting the eventbrite page at https://tinyurl.com/NickPolito.

Two of Polito’s songs, “Coal Dust and Neon Lights” and “True North” are also posted on the eventbrite page to sample his music.

Sponsors for the event are also currently being accepted through Oct. 11.

For information on becoming a sponsor, contact Pilla or Zlock.

About Nick Polito

Nick Polito is a full-time Americana singer-songwriter former coal miner from southwestern Pennsylvania, approaching four years of dedication to the music industry.

With a powerful voice and authentic storytelling, Nick has opened for renowned artists such as Tracy Byrd, Diamond Rio, The Clarks Trio, Scott Blasey, and Dave Pahanish, reflecting the respect he’s earned in the Americana and country music scenes.

Nick currently has four singles available to fans. His latest release, “True North,” marks his first collaboration with acclaimed producer and three-time No. 1 Billboard songwriter Dave Pahanish.

Released on July 17, this track represents a new chapter in Nick’s career as he travels regularly between his home base and Nashville to co-write and record songs with Dave, pursuing a full album project.

Working alongside Dave Pahanish has been a pivotal experience, providing Nick with invaluable mentorship and production expertise, and helping him hone a polished, contemporary sound while staying true to his Americana roots.

With aspirations to secure either a publishing deal or label signing, Nick is actively building his career through consistent collaborations and performances.

For more information on Polito, including upcoming performances, check out his Facebook page Nick Polito Music.

In addition to his Nesquehoning performance, Polito will also be on Colossal Radio the morning of Oct. 16; and will visit the Hazleton Area School District for a school assembly on Oct. 17.

He then performs Thorpe’s 903 in Jim Thorpe from 5 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 17.