Stained-glass windows at churches or window art decorations date back to the 18th and 19th centuries as a way to tell stories of the Bible. Now, local organizers hope the popular art form will spark a tradition in the city of Selma.

The city will unveil Christmas window art Friday, beginning 5 p.m. at the Selma Welcome Center. Selma Mayor George Evans will unveil windows, from Selma Avenue to Broad Street, decorated by local volunteers, Cahaba Hospice Inc., Frames ‘N Things, Selma City Ward 3 councilman Greg Bjelke and Four Seasons Garden Center and Selma Art Guild, in an effort to bring visitors to the area.

Event coordinators Nancy Smith and Karen Weir said the event marks something new for Selma and a chance to spread Christmas cheer.

“It’s something I’ve been thinking about since I moved to Selma,” Smith said. “We want to have something for children to look at … and adults to enjoy — it’s strictly Christmas. My dream is for every storefront … and vacant window, to be lit up downtown.”

The half block of windows, Smith said, will start from the Welcome Center and stretch to the alley behind Carter Drug Co. towards the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Smith said it’s about making the area attractive to visitors, especially during the holidays.

“Hopefully we’ll be able to get more people to get involved next year,” Smith said. “It’s a gift to the people in Selma. We’re hoping people with storefronts on Broad Street and downtown Selma — I’d like to see them decorate for Christmas. It makes the town look better … it’s great fun.”

Weir agrees, encouraging all parents and children to come out to the event.

“Come to Selma and see the windows … especially the children,” Weir said. “See the movement and the lights.”