The third annual Breckenridge Snowflake Challenge snow sculpting contest starts Sunday, with a registration deadline that expires Thursday.

Locals and visitors can participate in the amateur contest that lasts for a week – judging is on Dec. 11. On Dec. 8, site maps become available for viewers to tour the sculptures. The snow art remains on the streets throughout the holiday season.

Cash prizes include $1,500 for first place, $1,000 for second place, $500 for third place and $250 for fourth place.

Teams will be assigned a sculpting spot, but they must provide their own snow and hand tools (no power tools allowed) for the project.

The Snowflake Challenge is different than the Breckenridge International Snow Sculpture Championships, which are slated for Jan. 25-30, 2011. The Snowflake Challenge event is sponsored by Breckenridge Associates Real Estate, Breckenridge Resort Chamber, KSMT Radio, Summit Daily News and Coors Tap the Rockies.

Visit brecksnowflakechallenge.com or call (970) 453-2200 for more information or to obtain the registration form. Fill it out and return it with a $25 team entry fee or $75 business entry fee to Breckenridge Associates Real Estate at 229 South Main Street by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 2.