If you're really into Christmas, like stores putting out decorations four months ahead of the actual holiday into it, then the inaugural "Mini Christmas Tree Decorating Contest" is definitely for you!

The contest and judging take place Saturday, December 9, at Brimstone Museum Complex in Sulphur, with an award ceremony at 12:00pm, and more. The Christmas trees for the contest will be provided free of charge, but are limited in supply, said a VisitLakeCharles media release. The deadline to register and pick up a tree is Friday, Nov. 17, by 3:00pm. The 18-inch tall tree must be picked up from Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point, 2740 Ruth St., beginning on Wednesday, Nov. 1, through Friday, Nov. 17. Business hours are from 8:30am - 5:00pm Monday - Friday, and 8:30am - 4:00pm Saturday and Sunday.

According to the media release, "Trees must be decorated and delivered to the Brimstone Museum Complex by Friday, Dec. 8, from 2-4:30 p.m. First place receives $50; second receives $25 and third place receives $15. Decoration theme ideas include Louisiana culture, Louisiana history, seafood, music, Cajun, Creole or festivals."

Go to VisitLakeCharles.org/ChristmasTree for more info. along with detailed contest rules and regulations, or e-mail Shanna Landry, project manager, at slandry@visitlakecharles.org.

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