Citywide Neighborhood Committee Announces the Annual Holiday Lights Contest

The Citywide Neighborhood Committee’s Holiday Lights Contest has become a cherished tradition in Portsmouth as a way to give residents a reason to celebrate together this holiday season. Registration for this year’s decorating contest opens Friday, November 24.

Residents are invited to register by December 9, 2023, to participate in the contest by completing the form online at portsnh.co/holidaylights. On the website people can also find a map of all the participating homes so residents can view this wonderful display of community spirit.

This contest is open to every Portsmouth resident. Members of the Citywide Neighborhood Committee and resident families will conduct the judging. Winners will be announced at the Monday, December 18th City Council meeting. The three major categories of this year’s contest are:

• Traditional Light Display
• Creative Light Display
• Kids’ Choice

The three winners will each receive a prize selected by the Mayor’s office. There will also be three honorable mention winners for each category. Additionally, an anonymous donor has committed to donate $10 per entry in the contest to Gather.

In announcing the contest details, Portsmouth Citywide Neighborhood Committee co-chair Elaine Apatang said, “The Holiday Lights Contest always brings brightness and joy to the season, creating a festive atmosphere for kids and adults alike. The Citywide Neighborhood Committee is proud and delighted to uphold this tradition, encouraging residents to spread cheer throughout Portsmouth neighborhoods with their holiday displays.”