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If you are in the midst of decking your own halls with the holiday spirit – consider entering the annual Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce Holiday Decorating Contest.

While the Chamber’s Business Holiday Window Decorating Contest may be wrapping up,  there’s still plenty of time to enter the residential competition.

Businesses along the boardwalk, throughout the downtown, Main Street corridor and across the west side were judged on everything from their creation of a holiday mood to the reflection of a theme and/or story.

The winner will be announced during the 6 p.m. Friday Press Plaza Tree Lighting, according to a news release from the city.

Six prizes will be awarded in the large window [over 35 feet] and small window [under 35 feet] categories, with the grand prize – a $50 restaurant gift certificate – going to the best in each category. Judging was done by members of the Chamber, Pride in the Park, ARTSCAP, and AP CAN.

Now all eyes will turn to the town-wide residential contest.

Joined by the municipality, judging on the home holiday decorating contest is open to all winter celebrations, officials said. Participants must register with the Chamber by Dec 7 to be included.

“Whatever you celebrate, however you’re celebrating, we hope to encourage as many people as possible to join together and bring light and color and joy to this season all across the city,” said Councilman Jesse Kendle.

The residential category is not limited to window space, but can include lawn displays and home  decorations.

“You don’t have to spend a ton of money or have a huge yard to participate,” Mayor John Moor said. “The contest is about creativity, and you can enter whether you’re decorating a whole house or the window of your apartment.”

Winners will be judged on four factors: creation of a holiday mood, reflecting a theme or story, creativity, and overall pleasing design, according to the news release.

The categories include: best exterior for a whole house, best exterior for a condo or apartment, and best window or terrace. Winners will receive an Asbury Park prize package.

Registration is free. Email the Chamber of Commerce by Dec 7 at info@asburyparkchamber.com or call 732-775-7676.

Judging will be conducted from Dec 10 to 14 by a panel comprised of Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce and Pride in the Park members, as well as city residents, Homeowners Association, and ARTSCAP members.

Winners will be announced on December 15, organizers said.

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