Holiday Window Decorating Contest Brings Festive Magic to the Village

Carlsbad Village is already starting to sparkle. A handful of businesses have begun decorating their storefronts for the annual Holiday Window Decorating Contest, and soon the entire Village will come alive with festive displays for everyone to enjoy. From December 3 through December 16, the public is invited to stroll through the Village, soak in the holiday cheer, and vote for their favorite window. It is one of the most charming traditions of the season and a wonderful way for residents and visitors to spend time in the heart of Carlsbad.

The Holiday Window Decorating Contest, hosted by the Carlsbad Village Association and sponsored by Carlsbad Magazine, brings together creativity, community spirit, and a shared love of the holidays. Five award categories celebrate different styles and themes including Classic Holiday Charm, Children’s Delight, Most Creative Display, Best of Carlsbad Spirit, and the always-popular People’s Choice Award chosen by the public. Every window tells its own story and the Village becomes a walkable gallery of imagination.

For the community, the contest is a chance to enjoy a festive outing, support local businesses, and help choose the People’s Choice winner. Voting opens December 3 and runs through December 16 at 5:00 PM PST. The Village is especially magical during this time, making it the perfect opportunity to shop, dine, and take in the seasonal atmosphere.

For businesses, there is still time to join the fun! All registered participants will be featured on CVA’s website, social media, and newsletter, reaching a broad audience of locals and visitors. Category winners will receive a full-page feature in the January and February issue of Carlsbad Magazine, and the People’s Choice winner will also receive a complimentary quarter-page ad and restaurant gift cards for up to ten staff members.

Businesses Sign Up Here!

Sign-ups are open until Wednesday, November 26, and decorations must be completed by Wednesday, December 3. Businesses are encouraged to finish their displays by November 29 to take advantage of the excitement surrounding Small Business Saturday.

Whether you are discovering the displays or creating one of your own, the Holiday Window Decorating Contest brings joy, color, and community spirit to Carlsbad Village. It is a tradition that grows stronger each year and a beautiful way to celebrate the season together.