Downtown Selma received a makeover Friday with the unveiling of Christmas window decorations to various storefronts along Broad Street.

Young and old alike sipped hot chocolate and tea while looking on as Selma Mayor George Evans and event organizers revealed each window’s unique décor that embraced the holiday spirit.

From traditional trees, lights and ornaments, to nontraditional themes such as teddy bears or exotic quilt patterns, onlookers crowded around to view the creations that organizers hope will be an ongoing event.

“I appreciate all of you for being here — it will get bigger each year,” Evans said in excitement. “Thank you for doing this — this is just another step in the right direction, just one more piece to add to the puzzle. Merry Christmas to everyone.”

Event organizer Nancy Smith said she hopes the event will draw more tourists to the area and interest from residents.

“I hope ya’ll will come to the windows, get close and enjoy them,” Smith said. “We really hope each year this event will get bigger and better, to get people coming to Selma to enjoy our Christmas season.”

The windows, decorated by Cahaba Hospice Inc., Frames ‘N Things, the Selma Art Guild and local volunteers, will be lit throughout the holiday season.

Local residents felt the event was a positive for Selma.

“I feel real good about this — I’m excited for Selma,” said Riverview resident Karl Lewis. “You can just feel the change — the air is different. You can feel the community coming together and I’m happy for Selma and my town.”

Sharon Jackson, who helped to decorate a window, felt the city sparked a tradition.

“I’m glad we’re doing it,” Jackson said. “I think we have the potential to decorate some more windows. It’s a great project — it was great (that) business allowed us to use their space and electricity. Next year it’s gonna be fabulous.”

Bertha Mitchell of the Selma Welcome Center was happy the art guild’s decorations helped to make the center more festive.

“I think it’s lovely, (something) to start the holiday off,” Mitchell said.

Area children also enjoyed the unveilings.

“I love Selma and I hope more tourists come to see the Selma decorations and just see more of Selma,” said Morgan Academy sixth grader Brooks Leach.

“I really enjoyed the decorations and will most definitely come back next year.”

Payne Elementary student Brittany Johnson agrees.

“I feel excited,” Johnson said. “I like the decorations.”