AUSTIN (KXAN) — The holidays are officially less than 100 days away, but Austin is already getting merry for the lighting of the Zilker Tree.  It's time for young artists between the ages of five and 10 to get creative. They'll once again have the chance to participate in an art contest, vying for the chance to light the 155-foot tree on Dec. 1.  Youth artists can enter with their illustrations of Austin’s big tree in the junior (ages 5-7) or senior (ages 8-10) categories. Three winners from each category will be selected to illuminate the tree, made up of more than 3,300 lights. You can view past winners here. Artwork can be submitted by mail to the Austin Parks and Recreation Department at 200 S. Lamar Blvd. or here online. Submissions are open and are due on Nov. 1 at 4:30 p.m. (by mail/drop-off) or 11:59 p.m. (online). Mailed submissions must include the entry form, which is available in English and Spanish. All artwork should be 8½ x 11. According to Austin Parks and Recreation, Mayor Pro Tem Mrs. Emma Long officiated the city’s first tree lighting in 1967, but Austin has held a contest for the big honor to deck the halls ever since.