By Laura Bailey
Bristol residents are adding sparkle to the December nights with the return of the 6th Annual Holiday Lighting Contest. The city-wide competition, which began in 2019, has grown into a festive tradition, with over 1,000 votes and more than 4,000 members on its Facebook group.
The contest was the brainchild of Mike Prentiss, a Bristol resident who, along with his now 10-year-old daughter McKenzie, created the event six years ago. At the time, Prentiss noticed a lack of Christmas activities for local families, and his daughter’s love for Christmas lights sparked the idea for the contest.
Prentiss stated that one hits favorite things about the event is spending time with his family.
“Each year, my family and I still get in the car prior to addresses being released, grab hot chocolates, and make sure we see each display. It is a tradition that is planned out each year, and the kids look forward to it as much as I do. ” Prentiss said.
This year’s contest has become a beloved event for many in the city, drawing participants from across Bristol.
In addition to showcasing their elaborate light displays, the top five winners will receive prizes donated by local businesses, including a $100 gift card to Tonn’s Marketplace, a gift card to Iron Horse Sports Pub, a knife-making class from Evelich Metal Works, a window cleaning package from The Window Guy / CT Holiday Lights, and a free furnace cleaning from R&E Heating and Cooling.
“What I always remind participants is to not lose track of the purpose of the contest,” he said, “which is to get families to grab a coffee or hot chocolate and spend some time together checking out the different houses.”
Voting for this year’s holiday lighting contest will continue through Sunday, Dec. 22, at 9 p.m. To participate, visit the Bristol CT Holiday Lighting Contest Facebook group, where residents can view the displays and cast their votes for their favorite festive homes.
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