We are already seeing Christmas decorations going up around town. If you are planning to go big this year, show off your work by joining the City of Wilson's Christmas Cheer Challenge!

The city began the challenge in 2024 as a way to showcase our best holiday decorations and to give you a convenient way to plan your own light-seeking night drives. Last year we had more than 50 people sign up and we hope to double that this year.

We are asking everyone who registers to plan to have their displays up and operating every night from 5-9 p.m., beginning Friday, Dec. 5, and going through at least Christmas Eve, Dec. 24.

We have recruited a team of judges -- we cannot confirm or deny they are elves -- who will be out looking at the entries the week of Dec. 15-19 in five categories:

• Brightest
• Best Business
• Most Spirited
• Traditional Christmas
• Best Neighborhood (3 or more houses)

we will announce winners on Monday, Dec. 22. Winners will get a yard sign plus a gift basket from the category sponsors. 

Anyone in Wilson County can put their displays on our list, but only city residents qualify for the contests.

Register Here + See the Cheer Challenge Map