<div>Oct. 24—Joplin's annual Holiday Tree Trail in Mercy Park debuts Wednesday, Dec. 4.More than 100 trees are expected, as well as other holiday decorations and events.Opening night will feature cookies from Casey's, hot chocolate served by Joplin Rotary clubs, hot rolls and peanuts from Texas Roadhouse, refreshments sponsored by the Ronald McDonald House of Joplin, and musical performances by Karen's Dance Studio. Santa will also make an appearance.Events will be from 6-8 p.m. Dec. 4.The Tree Trail is open every night until 10 p.m. through the Christmas season.Those who attend are encouraged to vote for their favorite tree by scanning the QR code next to it through Dec. 31. Winners receive gift cards from the event sponsor, Texas Roadhouse.Started in 2020 by the Joplin Parks and Recreation Department, the event has grown in popularity every year.Last year, 50 trees were entered.Drawing people out for holiday activity and community involvement were the goals when the parks department came up with the idea to invite area organizations and companies to place lighted and decorated trees around the walking and biking trail that circles the fountains next to the Joplin Senior Center, 2616 S. Picher Ave.Some Americans with Disabilities Act spots are available in the Joplin Senior Center parking lot.Previous Tree Trails have included a tree made from clear and green pop bottles. It was created by a recycling company. Another took viewers into the comedic horror of Tim Burton's animated classic "The Nightmare Before Christmas." The Joplin Humane Society has in the past featured Spike, the brother of Snoopy, as its tree mascot.</div>

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Annual holiday tree trail begins Dec. 4 in Mercy Park

Oct. 24—Joplin's annual Holiday Tree Trail in Mercy Park debuts Wednesday, Dec. 4. More than 100 trees are expected, as well as other holiday decorations and events. Opening night will feature cookies from Casey's, hot chocolate served by Joplin Rotary clubs, hot rolls and peanuts from Texas Roadhouse, refreshments sponsored by the Ronald McDonald House of Joplin, and musical performances by Karen's Dance Studio. Santa will also make an appearance.