By Michele Taranto 

Remember the days when outdoor holiday decorating meant a few lights sprinkled on trees and bushes, a wreath on the door, and maybe some electric candles in the windows? Today, that form of minimalist décor is gone and embellishing the exterior house and landscape has transformed into a neighborhood, and sometimes town-friendly rivalry months in the making. 

Feeling that spirited holiday bug? Why not challenge neighbors and friends this year in the Norwood Recreation Department’s 6th Annual Holiday House Decorating Contest! This has become an incredibly popular and fun competition as Norwood residents flaunt their spirit for all to enjoy. For the past five years, residents have pulled out all the stops on their decorating and this year should be an even bigger event building on that festive momentum! Contestants simply need to register their house with the Norwood Recreation Department by Dec. 17. The rest is up to the judges! 

Rivalries and extreme decorating not for you? Enjoy the holiday spirit of others and spend a festive evening soaking in the sights using the interactive map on the Norwood Recreation social media page. 

To register your home or for more information, contact the Norwood Civic Center at 781-762- 0466, or email the program coordinator at [email protected]. Residents can nominate their home or their neighbor’s home. Judges from the Norwood Senior Center will rank each decorated house and three winners will be announced a few days before Christmas. The top winner will receive bragging rights with the traveling trophy! Gift cards to local businesses will be provided to each winner. 

Town employees will contact nominations before placing them on the map. Those who cannot visit the homes in person can also view on the map. Who in Norwood is up for the challenge and boasting rights for the most festive home in Norwood!!??