Our Opinion: Share holiday artistry with the community

News Tribune Editorial

Decorating a home for Christmas, at its best, is an exercise in artistry.

The artist chooses a theme and then selects characters, lighting and images to deliver a Christmas greeting or message.

This year's Christmas Lights Contest and Tour is now open to Jefferson City residents who would like to share their holiday creations.

Like artistic expressions in music, books and the visual arts, the categories reflect song titles, paintings, film and television.

The categories are:

The "Clark Griswold Award." Named for the character portrayed by Chevy Chase in "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation," the award will honor the most spectacular lighting display.

The "Charlie Brown Award." Named for the simple, lovable cartoon character, the category is for displays that concentrate on simplicity to evoke the spirit of Christmas.

The "Norman Rockwell Award." Named for the popular American artist, the award recognizes tastefulness and beauty.

The "Oh Holy Night Award." The award, named for the traditional Christmas carol, will honor the display that focuses on a religious theme.

The "TV Christmas Classics Award." Entries in this category will feature Christmas characters and themes from TV and film.

In addition, businesses are invited to participate in the category "Best Business Lights Display."

The contest is sponsored by Jefferson City Parks and Recreation, News Tribune, and Cottonstone Gallery and Frame Shop. Entry forms and contest rules are available at all three locations and will be printed periodically in the News Tribune.

The deadline to enter is Dec. 9. Entrants may be included on the tour map without taking part in the competition.

A tour map of contest participants and "People's Choice" ballot will be printed in the Dec. 13 News Tribune newspaper. Preliminary and final judging will lead to the announcement of citywide winners on Christmas Day.

This year marks the 31st Christmas Lights Contest and Tour. The competition inspires friendly competition among home decorators and the tour provides map for residents who enjoy viewing a variety of holiday creations.

The event is an opportunity to share family traditions and Christmas greetings with the community.