The City of Brookhaven’s Christmas tree will be officially lit up today.

The 32-foot-tall artificial tree was erected two weeks ago to be ready for today’s event. It stands at the south end of the old train depot in Railroad Park. A free-standing candy cane-striped photo frame is nearby for holiday photo opportunities.

Hosted by the Brookhaven Tourism Council, the lighting event will begin just after 5 p.m. with performances by the House Band and Performance Troop of the Mississippi School of the Arts. At 6 p.m., Mayor Joe Cox and Miss Merry Christmas Brianna Emfinger will officially light the tree. The lighting will be followed by music from local favorite The Bridge Band until 8 p.m.

Face painting will be available, as well as photos with Santa Claus in the Log Cabin. Sipsy Mobile Drinks will provide free hot chocolate.

“This will be the first annual Christmas tree lighting. I’m looking forward to that event tonight. A lot of good things are going on, from the School of the Arts to The Bridge Band, face painting and pictures with Santa. We should have great weather, too,” Mayor Cox said. “It’s Christmas in Brookhaven, y’all. So I’m hoping everyone will come out.”