Hamilton retailers were invited to take part in the City’s Christmas Window Decorating Contest.

The contest gives businesses a chance to show off their creativity and holiday spirit, all with the appeal of prizes for the winners.

Sideya Dill, the senior marketing co-ordinator for the City of Hamilton, said that the annual contest was meant to “create an inviting and joyful atmosphere across the city”.

She added: “By showcasing the creativity of our community, the contest not only enhances the festive cityscape but also plays a key role in driving local spending, bringing people into the city and boosting the economic impact for businesses of all sizes.”

The contest will be divided into the categories of Best Christmas Window 2024, which is selected by a panel of judges, and the People’s Choice selected by the public.

Each business can only enter one window and must display the window decorating participation notice issued by the City of Hamilton upon entering the contest.

Prizes for the Best Christmas Window category will include a $1,000 gift voucher from Belco and a $1,000 donation to a charity of choice.

The people’s choice winner will receive a $500 Belco gift voucher and a donation to their chosen charity to match the amount.

Ms Dill said: “In past contests we’ve seen incredible creativity and dedication from participants and it’s always inspiring to see how each business brings its vision to life.

“Over the last few years, the number of participants has increased steadily and this year we’re hoping to have more than 30 businesses take part.”

Registration ends on November 6 and can be done on the City of Hamilton’s website. Businesses must be located within city limits to qualify.

Window decorating must be finished by December 3 at 5pm and remain in place until December 18.

All participating windows will be photographed between December 3 at 6pm and December 5 at noon.

Voting and judging will take place between December 6 and December 16, with the winner to be announced the following day.