How it works…

1. Rally Your Downtown
Towns, boroughs, and main streets pull together — local leaders, businesses, schools, and volunteers — to bring holiday magic to the heart of the community.

2. Decorate Together
Work as a team to light up storefronts, windows, lamp posts, and public spaces. The more unified and creative your theme, the better your chances to shine.

3. Submit Your Entry
Each community shares photos and a short story about their downtown display. Entries are showcased in our regional gallery for all to see.

4. Vote & Be Recognized
Community members across the region vote online, while judges select standout winners. Awards and recognition go to the communities that bring the most spirit, creativity, and holiday cheer.

Awards & Prizes

  1. Most Festive Downtown
    For the town that creates the most dazzling, cheerful holiday atmosphere.
    🏆 Prize: $500 community grant • Regional spotlight feature • Engraved award plaque.

  2. Best Theme
    Awarded to the community whose decorations tell the most creative, cohesive holiday story.
    🏆 Prize: $300 community grant • Commemorative plaque • Feature in campaign press release.

  3. Green & Bright
    Honoring sustainable decorating with recycled, handmade, or energy-smart designs.
    🏆 Prize: $300 for a future community improvement project • “Green & Bright” recognition plaque • Highlight in social campaign.

  4. People’s Choice
    Voted on by the public across the region.
    🏆 Prize: $500 community grant • “People’s Choice” award plaque • Celebrated in fan-vote spotlight posts.

Timeline

Submissions Open – November 20, 2025
Communities begin sending in photos and a short description of their downtown display.

Submission Deadline – December 3, 2025
All entries must be submitted by this date to be included in the contest gallery and voting.

Voting Opens – December 5, 2025
The regional gallery goes live and the public casts votes for People’s Choice.

Voting Closes – December 20, 2025
Online ballots close and judges finish scoring.

Winners Announced – December 22, 2025
Awardees are celebrated in press releases, social posts, and community shout-outs — just in time for Christmas week.

Rules & FAQs

Who can participate?
Any community within NEPA PULSE’s 18-county service area — towns, boroughs, main street districts, or neighborhood business associations. Entries should be submitted by an authorized contact person (ex: municipal staff, chamber, nonprofit leader).

Is there a cost to enter?
Yes. There is a $50 entry fee per community, which helps cover contest administration, promotional materials, and prize funding. Thanks to our sponsors, the cost is kept low so all communities can join.

What are the display requirements?

  • Must be family-friendly and welcoming to all.

  • Decorations should be safely installed (no trip hazards, outdoor-rated cords/lights).

  • Displays must remain up through December 31, 2025.

How does voting work?

  • Public voting takes place online December 5–20, 2025.

  • Fan Favorite is determined by the popular vote.

  • Judges will also select winners in each category.

Can individuals or businesses enter on their own?
No, entries must represent a whole community effort. However, individual businesses are encouraged to contribute as part of their community’s display — or support as sponsors.

What do winners receive?
Cash community grants, plaques/trophies, and regional recognition through press, social media, and campaign spotlights.

How will prizes be delivered?
Community grants will be awarded to the lead organization/municipality listed on the entry form.