NAMPA, Idaho — A 40-foot evergreen tree will be cut down and installed in downtown Nampa in front of the Train Depot on Thursday.
This year's Christmas tree was donated by Frankie Airehart Foster, according to City of Nampa officials.
The evergreen was growing too close to her home, so to avoid damage to the foundation of her house she decided to have it cut down and donated to the city for the annual Christmas tree lighting.
Jon Wakelam, the owner of Qualitree, will be cutting down and transporting the tree for free, something he has done for many years.
Approximately 2,500 lights will be used to decorate the tree prior to Thanksgiving.
The lighting ceremony will happen on Nov. 30 and begin at 5:15 p.m. in front of the Nampa Train Depot.
However, several Christmas events will be going on before the lighting in Lloyd Square. Kids can hear a story read to them by Mrs. Claus at the Nampa Public Library from 1 to 1:30 p.m., grab a snack with parents from several food trucks and get a "selfie with Santa" at 3 p.m.
Free horse-driven carriage rides around the square will be available from 3 to 5 p.m. After 5 p.m. Silver Bells, Victory Arts Charter School Choir, and the Encore Theatre Carolers will perform and free hot chocolate and cider will be served.
The Christmas tree will be lit around 6 p.m.
Street closures will begin at noon on Nov. 30 for the celebration and free parking will be available all day in the Downtown Garage.
The Boise Christmas tree lighting will happen on Nov. 29, one day before the Nampa ceremony.
