Breakfast with Santa, the lighting of the Christmas tree, the Selma-Dallas County Christmas parade and holiday house, are just some of the annual activities the city of Selma holds. Friday, the city offered something new: Christmas window decorations.

Various windows throughout downtown were decorated by the likes of Selma City Ward 3 councilman Greg Bjelke, Cahaba Hospice Inc., Frames ‘N Things and local volunteers. Something of this nature has never happened before.

As Selma Mayor George Evans helped local resident Nancy Smith pull down the brown wrapping across the windows, eyes lit up and surprised gasps could be heard from every mouth — young and old.

From traditional Christmas trees and lights, to the nontraditional accessories of quilts and teddy bears, one person mentioned the event could be Selma’s “mini New York City,” as each window showcased its own personality and decorative flair for the holidays.

Selma has so much to offer — great people, great history and great food.

I’m just so excited about what the future will hold for the area.

It will once again be a place where young and old, black, white and Latino, can be proud of.

I enjoy the holiday season — the weather changes, the Christmas carols and the holiday spirit.

I love how Selma comes together to make Christmas a special holiday for everyone.

Friday’s event made me hopeful of the days to come to Selma.

No longer will the name carry with it a stigma — but one of progression, happiness and unity.

With all the help and interest in beautifying the city for the holidays, it makes me proud be a Selmian.

Like the popular 1930s classic “The Wizard of Oz” stated, “there’s no place like home,” and truly for Christmas, Selma is now the place to be for the holidays.