Judges looking for the best ‘new and different’ Christmas light display in annual contest

CHUBBUCK — The annual Christmas light competition is back for another year in Chubbuck and city officials are on the lookout for the most impressive display.

Though awards will be provided in a variety of categories, judges are looking for originality.

“The same old thing is not gonna continue to win awards because they’ve already won for that, so we need something new and different,” said Brad Winters, the competition coordinator.

Categories include Best Animation, Most Colorful, Most Traditional, Spirit of the Season, Best Commercial/Business, the Clark Griswold Award and Best Overall.

Special recognition will be given to the street, cul-de-sac or small neighborhood with the most houses decorated or the best combined display.

While the light contest is a “friendly competition”, Winters said the real aim is to bring Christmas spirit to the community.

“It’s fun,” Winters said. “It just puts people more in the holiday spirit. People are always (wondering) where to go to see the best houses.”

The judges will begin to evaluate displays from November 29 through December 6. Submissions will be accepted until December 2. Participants need to have their lights on from 6 p.m. until 11 p.m. when judging is happening.

Winners will be announced on December 8. A sign will be displayed in the recipient’s yard informing them which category they won. The winners will also be recognized on the city’s website and social media pages.

For those who’d like to participate, Winters is working on an online form for people to fill out. Meanwhile, they can message the city on Facebook or send an email to [email protected].

Take a look at last year’s winners here.