MADISON – Mayor Troy Trulock is inviting residents to enter the “Madison Mayor’s 2013 Christmas Tree Decorating Contest.”

The “Madison Mayor’s 2013 Christmas Tree Decorating Contest” is open to spread holiday cheer around the Madison Gazebo on Front Street. (CONTRIBUTED)

The City of Madison is starting this new tradition to help create a beautiful and festive environment in downtown around the Madison Gazebo. “Whether you use the tree to express your creativity or promote your business, the decorating contest is a wonderful way to add charm to the holidays,” Trulock said.

The decorated Christmas trees will be judged in several categories: Most Creative; Most Whimsical; Most Sophisticated; Mayor’s Choice; Honorable Mention; and People’s Choice, which residents will select.

Contestants will receive one six-foot live, cut tree; one outlet strip and extension cord to power lights; a sign for each tree to identify the sponsor and decorator; and fencing to surround the tree.

Participants will set up and decorate trees from noon to 5 p.m. on Dec. 9-11 at the gazebo. Most trees will be judged on Dec. 12.

However, the public can vote for the People’s Choice Award on Dec. 14 between 5 to 6 p.m. at the gazebo. Immediately following the Madison Christmas Parade on Dec. 14, organizers will announce the winners.

Registration deadline is Dec. 2. Entry fee is $150. The number of available trees is limited so organizers recommend reserving a tree early.

Checks must be payable to The City of Madison (memo – “Tree Decorating Contest”) and mailed to The City of Madison, Attention – Gayle Milam, 8324 Old Madison Pike, Madison, AL 35758.

All lighting and decorations must be weatherproof and made for outdoor use. Candles or flammable material is prohibited.

Participants must maintain their Christmas decorations through Dec. 31. Contestants must remove trees on Jan. 3-5.

The city may post images of contest winners and participants on the city website (madisonal.gov) or promotional materials.

“We look forward to displaying your tree and sharing the Christmas spirit with our community,” Milam said.