MADISON – At Madison City Council’s meeting on Jan. 8, representatives from local businesses, nonprofit organizations and service groups accepted awards for excellence in Madison’s Christmas observances.

Debbie Overcash, President of Madison Station Historic Preservation Society, said the society is pleased to partner with the City of Madison for the Polar Express Christmas Tree Trail and the Christmas Capers. Overcash also announced award-winning entries in the Madison Christmas Parade, coordinated by Madison Parks and Recreation Department.

“The fifth reenactment of a wonderful Madison Christmas tradition begun by Doc Hughes, the Christmas Capers, on Dec. 16 saw our largest attendance to-date,” Overcash said. On the roof of Hughes Drug Store, Larry Anderson, Walt Anderson and Teddy Powell pitched 20 rubber chickens with prize tags that totaled more than $3,300 to the excited crowd on Main Street.

Numerous businesses contributed to Christmas Capers’ prizes:

* Medical — Amy Thompson Dentistry, Madison Family Dentistry.

* Retail – Belk, Filthy Gorgeous on Main, Flower Shoppe of Providence, Heritage Florist, Kathleen’s Bridal, Lemon & Lavender, Madison Station Antiques, Noble Passage, Zion Popcorn.

* Restaurants — Champy’s Chicken, Main Street Cafe, Tom Brown’s Restaurant, Yellowhammer Brewery.

* Hair salons — Elegance on Main, Studio 106.

* Real estate – Madison Title and Closing, Murphy Homes, Opie Balch Realty, Pat Glenn/Legend Realty.

* Miscellaneous — City of Madison Parks and Recreation, Huntsville International Airport.

For 2023, the Christmas tree trail included 68 entries – another record setter. The city acknowledged a few of the trees as standouts in decorating:

* 2023 Mayor’s Choice Award – Madison American Legion, Post 229 and Auxiliary Post 229. Brady and Pam Rogers were representatives.

* 2023 Merry and Bright (Showstopper) Award — The Flower Shoppe of Providence with Jessica Harris.

* 2023 Holly Jolly (Most Holiday Inspired) Award — I Vote Madison. Heather Morgan accepted the honor.

The 2023 Madison Christmas Parade on Dec. 10 had 30 participating groups and organizations. Award winners in the parade included these organizations:

* Merry and Bright Award — Girl Scouts of North Central Alabama, Service Unit 212.

* Holly Jolly Award — Madison Mission Pathfinders and Adventurers.

* Committee’s Choice Award — Cub Scouts, Pack 351.

“We’re looking forward to continuing to grow these wonderful Madison events . . . now Madison traditions . . . in 2024 and beyond,” Overcash said.