The magic of Christmas is set to return to the Braintree District as council leaders confirm the popular festive window dressing competition will be back for 2025, bringing sparkle and creativity to high streets across the region.
Following the tremendous success of previous years, this cherished community tradition invites local businesses, organisations, and even residential properties to unleash their creativity and transform their windows into spectacular Christmas displays that will delight shoppers and visitors throughout the festive season.
What You Need to Know
The competition typically opens for entries in early November, giving participants several weeks to design and create their masterpieces before judging commences in December. While full details for the 2025 competition will be confirmed closer to the time, previous years have seen categories including:
- Best dressed business window
- Most creative residential display
- Best community organisation entry
- People's Choice award
Why This Competition Matters
This initiative does more than just spread Christmas cheer - it provides a significant boost to local businesses by attracting increased footfall to town centres. Previous participants have reported noticeable increases in customer visits during the competition period, making it a valuable opportunity for retailers during the crucial festive shopping season.
Councillor Tom Cunningham, who has championed the event in previous years, emphasised its importance: "This competition brings our communities together and creates that magical Christmas atmosphere that makes our town centres so special during the festive period. It's wonderful to see the creativity and effort that local businesses and residents put into their displays."
How to Get Involved
While registration details for the 2025 competition will be announced in autumn next year, interested parties are encouraged to start thinking about their themes and designs early. Past winners have ranged from traditional nativity scenes to modern interpretations of winter wonderlands, with some participants beginning their planning months in advance.
The competition typically offers cash prizes for category winners, along with the prestige of being named the district's most festive window. Many previous participants have found the competition so rewarding that they return year after year, continually raising the standard of Christmas displays across Braintree District.
Keep an eye on official Braintree District Council communications channels for updates and registration information as we approach the festive season of 2025.
