High school seniors can kick off the beginning of their graduation season at the second annual Grad Night on Thursday.

Sponsored by Troy Bank and Trust, the free event features plenty of games, activities, food and giveaways.

“We do this to help kick off the graduation season,” said Dianna Lee, marketing officer for Troy Bank. “As a student, this is what you think about for 12 years … graduation … and we want to be one of the first to wish them congratulations.”

The event showcases local businesses and vendors – from tanning salons to restaurants – and gives the graduating seniors a chance to see what’s available to there right here in Pike County.

“We feature some of the businesses and vendors in the area and what they have to offer, and we introduce (the students) to Troy Bank and Trust and the services we have to offer,” Lee said.

Lee said in addition to the “goody bags” that include coupons and discounts to local businesses, participants can enjoy a variety of food offerings, including chicken wings, sub sandwiches, pizza, a nacho bar, an ice cream sundae bar and a coffee bar.

“Horn Beverage will have the zero calorie drinks and we’ll have Pepsi products available,” Lee said.

“And we’re giving away door prizes throughout the night,” she said. “Our really big giveaways include a Yeti cooler, donated by Ward’s Yamaha; and iPad Mini, donated by The Messenger; a television, donated by WTBF; a FitBit, donated by Troy Cable; and a $50 gift card from Glow.”

Other activities include inflatables and games, as well as a photo booth

. “And we’ll even have salon and Mary Kay representatives to help spruce you up before you get in the photo booth,” Lee said.

Grad Night takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pike County Cattleman’s Complex and is free to graduating seniors.