MADISON – Civic groups, families and businesses can add to “Downtown Madison Christmas Magic” by entering the city’s “Christmas Tree Decorating Contest.”

“Would you like a wonderful opportunity to help create a beautiful and festive environment in our downtown? Whether you use the tree to express your creativity or promote your business, group, organization or bring awareness, it is a wonderful way to add charm to the holidays,” City Event and Volunteer Coordinator Gayle Milam said.

The Christmas trees in the contest will be displayed along Main Street in historic downtown Madison.

Registration deadline is Nov. 22. The registration form is available at madisonal.gov/documentcenter/view/7033.

Trees will be available to participants for decorating on Nov. 28. Contestants must decorate all trees no later than noon on Dec. 1. The official lighting of all trees will take place on Dec. 1 at approximately 6 p.m. following the Children’s Lantern Parade.

Contestants will vie for awards in the categories for Most Creative, Most Whimsical, Most Sophisticated, People’s Choice, Mayor’s Choice and Honorable Mention.

Each entrant will receive one six-foot live, cut tree; an electrical outlet to power lights and decorations; and a recognition banner naming the sponsor and decorator (if different).

Entry fee for for-profit businesses and organizations is $150. Non-profit organizations will pay $75 for the entry fee. Checks should be payable to City of Madison with “Tree Decorating Contest” in the memo line. Mail payment and registration form to The City of Madison, Attn: Gayle Milam, 8324 Old Madison Pike, Madison AL 35758.

The public can vote for the People’s Choice Award by visiting Facebook/Christmas Magic in Downtown Madison or stopping by Dublin Park, 8324 Old Madison Pike). Voting will end Dec. 8.

The number of trees available is limited so reserve a Christmas tree early, Milam said.

Winners of the decorating awards will be announced at Madison City Council’s meeting on Dec. 11. Participants must agree to display and maintain their Christmas decorations through Dec. 31. Participants must remove all decorations no later than Jan. 6, 2018.

For more information, call Milam at 256-772-2557 or email gayle.milam@madisonal.gov.