Haul out the holly, put up those lights before the first of December.
Fill up the front yard; we may be rushing things but Destin’s contest begins now.
For we need a little Christmas, right this very minute, the best outdoor decorations will be the ones to win it.
Yes we need a little Christmas, all over the city; we need a little Christmas now.
Destin’s annual outdoor Christmas decoration contest kicks off Monday with six categories for best display. The categories are best decorated home, business, organization, or condominium, best overall holiday and best on the harbor.
Last year, Sally Biedenharn won the best overall holiday award for her zoo-themed lawn.
“I so much enjoyed it last year, I got way too carried away,” laughed Biedenharn. With 8,000 lights and 46 light-up animals, Biedenharn’s yard was a sight to see.
“I just enjoy watching the children’s faces when people drive by, and get out and walk among the lights,” she said. “It’s just fun for me, just the thrill of the competition. My inner child really comes out at Christmas.”
This year Biedenharn told The Log she is scaling back due to a recent surgery.
“This year I’m only putting out about a fourth of my display,” she said. “But I will be back in the contest next year.”
AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar was also a category winner last year winning best on the harbor for its Merry AJ’s illuminated sign and festive décor. Marketing Director Tracy McCraw says this year the restaurant is gearing up to run for the prize once again.
“Every year AJ’s takes pride in decorating for the holidays and this year will be no different,” said McCraw. “We always do something a little bit extra, we change it up a little every year to be different. We look forward to trying to be the best on the harbor once again.”
Destin’s holiday committee will be judging the decorations from Dec. 1-15 with the winners announced on Dec. 20. To qualify for the competition entrants must be located within Destin’s city limits and keep decorations up for the entire month of December.
Winners will be recognized by the mayor at the city council meeting on Jan. 5. For more information call 650-1241 or email recreation@cityofdestin.com.