Fairfield Christmas Light Showdown returns

Fairfield is about to sparkle. Visit Fairfield CVB and Macks Automotive invite homeowners within Fairfield city limits to enter the annual Fairfield Christmas Light Showdown, a friendly community competition that blends holiday cheer, neighborhood pride, and a touch of over the top Christmas movie flair. Think the Griswolds meet cozy community joy.

Registration is open now through December 5. Homes that sign up will be added to the official Showdown Map so the public can tour and vote.

Showdown nights are Dec. 12 and 13 from 4 to 9 p.m. During these hours, residents and visitors can pick up or download their map and ballot, explore participating homes, chat with decorators, and soak in the holiday glow. Completed ballots must be returned to the Visit Fairfield office at 107 N Main Street by 9 p.m. on December 13.

Why Should You Join?

Fame and Glory: Showcase your holiday spirit to the entire community.

Prizes Await: Win cash prizes of up to $500 for the most dazzling displays! Prizes provided by Mack's Automotive in Fairfield.

Spread Joy: Bring smiles and holiday cheer to your neighbors and visitors alike.

How the Competition Works

This year brings a mix of community voting and expert judging.

The contest is limited to the first 35 entries (you can enter as individual homes or work together as a block or neighborhood), and there is no charge to enter.

Entries must have lights on and be ready to go at 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12 and Saturday December 13.

The public will score each home for holiday spirit, creativity, and overall delight. Meanwhile, a secret panel of judges made up of past winners and true light fanatics will add scores for complexity, storytelling, craftsmanship, and clever use of lights.

Together, these scores will determine the top winners. Winners will be announced on Sunday Dec. 14 on Visit Fairfield’s Facebook Page

Awards and Prizes

Thanks to Macks Automotive, this year’s event features generous cash prizes:

• First place: $500

• Second place: $250

• Third place: $150

• People’s Choice Award: $500

• Newbie Spotlight Award:$200, recognizing a first time participant who made a strong festive showing

The Newbie Spotlight Award exists to encourage households that may feel intimidated by the long time pros. Fairfield loves a good underdog.

Who Can Enter

Any homeowner located within Fairfield city limits is eligible. Whether your display is modest and charming or bold enough to redirect aircraft, you are welcome in the showdown.

Why Enter

Bragging rights are real, but the best part is being part of a community tradition that brings neighbors together. Visitors from outside Fairfield often describe the event as seeing the holiday spirit that is normally tucked away in quiet neighborhoods. There is also a special joy in seeing children point out their favorite displays and adults rediscovering their inner kid. Let your creativity shine! From twinkling lights to inflatable Santas, let your holiday spirit run wild.

How to Register

Registration is simple. Fill out the form at visitfairfieldiowa.com or stop by the Visit Fairfield office. All entries must be received by Dec. 5 to guarantee inclusion on the map.

About the Event

The Fairfield Christmas Light Showdown is hosted by Visit Fairfield CVB with sponsorship support from Macks Automotive. The event is designed to bring the community together, celebrate creativity, and make Fairfield shine bright for residents and visitors alike.

For more information or to register your home, visit visitfairfieldiowa.com or contact the Visit Fairfield office at 107 N Main Street. 641-472-2828