Residents of the town of Cicero are getting a chance to show off their brightest lights and cheeriest holiday decorations. The town’s Youth Bureau, Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its second annual Holiday Decorating Contest from now through Dec. 14. The contest officially kicked off Nov. 14. “The department decided to host this contest last year as a way to show others how beautiful our community is,” said Julie Raddell, who coordinates the contest. “The response was overwhelming in 2014 and we are hoping for an even larger number of nominations in the second year.” In addition to showing off the best decorations the town has to offer, Raddell said the contest highlights the community spirit in Cicero. “The best part about receiving nominations is reading the high praise people have for their neighbors,” she said. “Most people don’t just send us an address; they send us an explanation of why the nominated home brings them so much joy. It’s inspiring to read and really brings back that magical holiday feeling.” The rules are as follows:
Winners will be announced by 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15. Winners will receive a sign to display in their yards, as well as a commemorative award. Photos of their decorations will also be posted on Cicero’s Facebook pages as well as in the Eagle Star-Review.