Santa Claus with NFL cheerleaders? Only the Carolina Panthers could pull it off.

The Carolina Panthers are inviting the public to attend the team’s fourth annual Christmas tree lighting Wednesday, featuring one of the region’s largest trees: A 58-foot, 8-inch tall Norway spruce.

The lighting will also be one of those rare moments when the heartwarming legend of Santa Claus will merge with the very American tradition of NFL cheerleaders strutting their stuff. The 90-minute lighting show starts at 6 p.m., at the corner of Mint and Graham streets. In years past, as many as 5,000 fans attended the event.

Attendees will be treated to an evening that includes children's activities, holiday movies, festive music and a special visit from Santa Claus. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to relax and enjoy the festivities. Food and drinks will also be available for purchase from a number of local food trucks.

The entertainment will include appearances by Sir Purr, the TopCats Cheerleaders, the PurrCussion Drumline and the Black & Blue Crew. The lighting ceremony will also include performances featuring the Charlotte Bronze Handbell Ensemble and Queen City Groove.

The event will be held rain or shine, and parking will be available from various independent parking companies in the Uptown area.

The tree was harvested in Linville.

This story was originally published November 21, 2017 at 4:07 PM with the headline "Santa Claus with NFL cheerleaders? Only the Carolina Panthers could pull it off.."