Holiday Home Decorating Contest

Light Up Fountain Inn: Annual House Decorating Contest Returns December 4

Fountain Inn, S.C. — The City of Fountain Inn invites residents and businesses to help make our community shine even brighter this holiday season during the Annual House Decorating Contest, part of the Christmas INN Our Town celebration. Judging will take place Thursday, December 4, beginning at 6 p.m., and no registration is required — simply turn your lights on before 6 p.m. to participate!

Each year, this cherished Fountain Inn tradition transforms neighborhoods into a glowing showcase of holiday spirit and creativity. The contest encourages residents and business owners alike to embrace the joy of the season, contributing to the small-town magic that makes Fountain Inn feel like a Hallmark movie come to life.

“Every home and business that decorates helps build the wonder of Christmas INN Our Town,” said City Administrator Shawn Bell. “Those twinkling lights and festive porches are one of the special treats that make our city such a special place to celebrate the holidays.”

Led by a devoted team of volunteers — Cindy Clemmer, Ashley Wiggins, Maria Bentley, and Tracy Willis — the House Decorating Committee has worked diligently for months to plan every detail of this beloved tradition. Their efforts help preserve the timeless charm and festive spirit that define Christmas INN Our Town.

Contest Details

All homes and businesses lit by 6 p.m. on December 4 will be judged. There’s no need to register — just make sure your decorations are shining bright!

• Central Business District: All downtown merchants and businesses. Judging will take place on foot (weather permitting).

• Wards 1–6: Residential judging will be conducted from the curb by out-of-town judges.

Judging Criteria

Judges will score displays based on the following:

1. Creativity and Originality — Unique design and theme consistency (2025 theme: Christmas INN Our Town)

2. Overall Appearance — Visual impact, arrangement, color coordination, and overall attractiveness

3. Lights and Decorations — Quality, condition, placement, and creative use of lights

4. Effort and Workmanship — Construction quality, attention to detail, and overall effort

Awards (there will be a 1st, 2nd, 3rd and one sugar plum award in each ward and the central downtown business area)

Winners will be selected in multiple categories, including:

• Traditional Home Décor – For classic, elegant displays that capture timeless holiday beauty

• Sugar Plum Award – For whimsical, magical, and kid-friendly designs that spark imagination

• Best Business/Storefront – For downtown businesses that make Main Street merry and bright

Helpful Tips for Participants

• Make your front door a focal point — it’s the first thing judges will notice.

• Keep cords, plugs, and spotlights neat and subtle.

• Balance your display to fit your home’s size — bigger isn’t always better!

Residents and visitors can find more details and maps of each judging ward at MainStreetFountainInn.com/HouseDecoratingContest.

Let’s make this December one to remember — light up Fountain Inn and share the spirit of Christmas INN Our Town!