Join JC Parks and the News Tribune for the 40th Annual Christmas Home Decorating Contest. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning participant, you can compete to win in one of the six contest categories or enter just for fun to be included on the Christmas Lights Tour map. Every entry helps brighten our community, and if you prefer, only your address — not your name — will be listed on the map.
2025 Categories:
- Clark Griswold: For the ultimate lighting enthusiast — bold, bright, and brilliantly over the top! Judges will look for construction, creativity, and overall wow factor.
- Charlie Brown: Perfect for the simple, heartfelt display that captures the true Christmas spirit. Sometimes less really is more!
- Norman Rockwell: For timeless elegance and classic beauty that complements your home’s natural charm. Tasteful, balanced, and picture-perfect.
- O Holy Night: For displays that celebrate the reason for the season with a religious or nativity theme. Handmade elements or creative craftsmanship will earn extra points.
- Christmas Classics: Formerly the “TV Christmas Classics” category; from Frosty to Rudolf and Buddy the Elf tot he Grinch – this category celebrates holiday nostalgia! Bring your favorite Christmas or TV movie moments to life with lights, characters, and storytelling.
- Stars, Stripes, & Sparkle: This *NEW* patriotic theme honors the spirit of America’s 250th birthday! This category is for homes that creatively blend patriotic pride with holiday cheer. Think red, white, blue – and a little twinkle too!
Contest rules:
- The contest opens on Monday, November 24, 2025 and is open to residents within Jefferson City limits who submit the entry form by 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025. The form will appear multiple times in the Jefferson City News Tribune.
- Entrants must choose to compete or be listed only on the Christmas Lights Tour; competitors must select one of the six categories on their entry form. Judges cannot change the chosen category.
- All entries and the Christmas Lights Tour Map will be published in the December 17 edition of the News Tribune, along with a mail-in ballot for the People’s Choice Award.
- Judging for First Place in each category by City Ward occurs December 12-16, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (displays must be lit). These winners will be announced and receive yard signs by December 22, 2025.
- The People’s Choice Award voting portal will open December 17, and close on December 22, 2025. The People’s Choice winner will be announced in the December 26 edition of the News Tribune.
