Decorate a tree, watch parade downtown

MADISON – Planning is underway to transform Madison’s historic district into a winter wonderland.

One component of “Downtown Madison Christmas Magic” is the 2016 Christmas Tree Decorating Contest. Christmas trees will be displayed along Main Street.

“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.

Registration forms and contest rules are available by visiting www.madisonal.gov; then click “Our Community” and “Special Events.”

Registration deadline is Nov. 23. Entry fee for a business or for-profit organization is $150. For a non-profit organization, the fee is $75. Each entrant will receive a six-foot cut, live Christmas tree; electrical outlet for power; and a recognition banner for the sponsor.

Trees will be available for decorating on Nov. 29. Groups must decorate all trees by noon on Dec. 2.

Award categories for the Christmas trees are “Most Creative,” “Most Whimsical,” “Most Sophisticated,” “Mayor’s Choice,” “Honorable Mention” and “People’s Choice.”

Officials will announce winners at the Madison Gazebo on the Village Green following the Madison Christmas Parade on Dec. 10. Individuals can vote for the tree deserving the People’s Choice Award by visiting Facebook/Christmas Magic in Downtown Madison or any business of Main Street on Dec. 5-9.

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.

Another event for the holiday season is the City of Madison Christmas Parade. The 2016 theme is “The Magic of Christmas.” The parade will be held on Dec. 10 at 5:30 p.m.

Parade entries will line up on Plaza Boulevard starting at 4 p.m. The parade then will proceed south on Hughes Road, west on Mill Road, south on Church Street, west on Main Street and north on Sullivan Street. The parade units will disband at Madison Elementary School at 17 College St.

Registration deadline is Nov. 23. Registration forms and parade rules are available by visiting www.madisonal.gov; then click “Our Community” and “Special Events.”

Award categories are “Spectacular Sparkles,” “Elfin Magic,” “Spirit Award,” “Director’s Award” for large and small groups, “Mayor’s Award” for large and small groups, “Parade Committee Award” for large and small groups and “Parade Performance Award.”

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