Groups, businesses and individuals can enter the 2015 Madison Mayor’s Christmas Tree Decorating Contest. Trees will decorate Main Street in downtown Madison. Noble Passage Interiors decorated this tree in 2013. (RECORD PHOTO/GREGG PARKER)

MADISON – Residents have an opportunity to helping in creating a festive atmosphere for Christmas in downtown Madison. The 2015 Madison Mayor’s Christmas Tree Decorating Contest is open now to entries.

“Whether you use the tree to express your creativity or promote your business, group, organization or bring awareness, it’s a wonderful way to add charm to the holidays,” Gayle Milam said. Milam works as special event coordinator for the City of Madison.

Mayor Troy Trulock started this exhibit in 2013 so businesses, groups and individuals can add to the Christmas spirit in their hometown.

Christmas trees will be displayed along Main Street. Participants are eligible for awards, including “Most Creative,” “Most Whimsical,” “Most Sophisticated,” “People’s Choice,” “Mayor’s Choice” and honorable mention.

“The public can vote for the People’s Choice Award by stopping in at any of the businesses in downtown Madison on Dec. 5-11,” Milam said.

Registration deadline in Nov. 25. Entry fees are $150 for for-profit businesses and organizations and $75 for non-profit organizations.

Participants should make checks payable to City of Madison (with “Tree Decorating Contest” in the memo line) and mail with registration form and waiver of liability form to City of Madison, Attention: Gayle Milam, 8324 Old Madison Pike, Madison, AL 35758.

Trees will be available for decorating on Nov. 30, 2015. Groups must decorate all trees by noon on Dec. 4. The city will provide live, cut tree that stands six feet tall, electrical outlet to power lights and decorations and a recognition sign naming the sponsor and decorator’s name.

“The official lighting of all trees will take place on Dec. 4, following the Children’s Lantern Parade at approximately 6 p.m.,” Milam said.

Winners of awards will be announced at the Madison Gazebo after the annual Madison Christmas Parade on Dec. 12.

“The number of trees available is limited so please reserve your tree early,” Milam said.

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