Through Sept. 8, artists can apply to paint an entry for “Christmas Card Lane.” (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – The Dog Days of Summer currently are broiling with near-100 degrees, but some community-minded volunteers have been busy planning a new Christmas tradition for Madison.

Madison Arts Council (MAC) will debut “Christmas Card Lane” on Nov. 29. “This fun exhibit will consist of life-size cards placed in the yards of about 25 residential and commercial properties in historic downtown Madison,” MAC President Shrail Heinrich said.

MAC welcomes all seasoned and budding artists alike to apply and include a conceptual drawing. An applicant’s sole requirement is “to take their submitted concept to a 4-by-6 foot platform,” Heinrich said. MAC has pre-assigned some placement spots for younger artists.

Application deadline for artists is Sept. 8. To submit applications, mail to MAC, Attention: Christmas Card Lane, P.O. Box 1929, Madison AL 35758 or email to President@artsmadison.org.

Growing up in Madison County, Heinrich remembers two beautiful, annual displays: Horseshoe Bend and Christmas Card Lane. “Christmas Card Lane was along a stretch of Holmes Avenue east of Sparkman Drive,” she said. “About 20 homes would display a card each year.”

Her favorite was an iconic Snoopy with a lighted tree by his doghouse.

To-date, more than 20 homeowners along Church and Front streets have signed up to host a card. Each homeowner has indicated the type of card they prefer: traditional, whimsical or religious-based.

“Some hosts asked for specific themes, such as ‘Joy to the World,’ manger scene or Santa,” Heinrich said.

MAC will contact each accepted artist to pick up a sheet of precut, 1/2-inch sanded plywood. MAC will work directly with each homeowner/business on placement. Each card will be lighted in front and on a timer so all cards light/turn off simultaneously.

MAC will post an online voting link so residents can choose their favorite card. At the finale of Christmas Card Lane on Jan. 4, artists will receive cash prizes of $500, $250 and $150 for the top three cards.

For more information, visit artsmadison.org/christmas-card-lane.