Sandy Springs business owners are being encouraged to display their seasonal spirit for the city’s first annual holiday decorating competition. The contest is a joint collaboration between Art Sandy Springs, the Sandy Springs/Perimeter Chamber of Commerce, Sandy Springs Hospitality and Tourism, the Sandy Springs Design Center and the City of Sandy Springs.
“The holidays are a time to come together as a family and as a community. ‘Sparkle Sandy Springs’ is a community initiative, and we think a wonderful way to let Sandy Springs sparkle in lights and showcase our business community,” said Sandy Springs Mayor Eva Galambos.
The competition is open to all businesses within city limits of Sandy Springs. Businesses must submit a registration form to enter the competition. Participating businesses will be judged on the decorated store fronts which are visible from the street, with décor representing the holiday spirit expressed in an inviting and festive way for all consumers and visitors to the community.
“Each business has the freedom to choose a holiday theme as the basis of their décor. While we are focusing on storefronts for our inaugural year, our hope is to grow the competition connecting city businesses in a visual expression of light,” said Cheri Morris, President of Art Sandy Springs.
Art Sandy Springs will guide the judging which will take place over a two-day period: Tuesday, December 13 and Wednesday, December 14. Participating businesses are requested to turn on their lights at 5:30 p.m. on those days and keep them on until midnight. Judging criteria includes:
- Creativity and Originality
- Best Expression of Theme
- Best Use of Lighting
- Best Use of Available Space
- Overall Design Quality and Presentation
The winning storefront will be announced during the Sandy Springs/Perimeter Chamber of Commerce’s holiday gathering to be held on December 15 with a $1,000 cash prize provided by the Sandy Springs Design Center.
Competition guidelines and the registration form can be found at sandyspringsga.gov/sparkle.
Originally Published: Wednesday, November 16, 2011