Chamber Will Do 'Virtual' Tree-Lighting, House Decorating Contest

EAST HAVEN, CT — With the pandemic forcing communities to adapt in an effort to stay safe, many of the holiday traditions so many look forward to have had to be canceled to protect public health. The pandemic has taken some of those public celebrations from us, but it cannot steal the holiday spirit.

The East Haven Chamber of Commerce, not unlike chambers across the state and nation, has had to cancel its annual tree lighting, described as a "special time" with "horse-drawn carriage rides and bouncy houses, to s’mores and cookie decorating."

The chamber has decided, after consulting with the town and health officials, to do a virtual tree-lighting ceremony with music and Santa. It will be broadcast on social media and ETV on Sat. Nov. 28 at 4:30 p.m.

It has also decided to hold its East Haven Holiday House Decorating Contest.

"During this crazy year that we have had, we would like to bring a little light to East Haven," the chamber said in media release.

The way it works

The only rule is that your home must be in East Haven. Voting will be done by Facebook 'Likes.' If you wish to enter your home, please fill out this form. You can send in a photo of your home or sign up for a professional photo to be taken of your home. Entries must be submitted by December 18th. We will also be making a map of the homes for people to do a decorating run. People can drive by in person to see your creation. Please opt in if you would like to be on the map. Please submit your photo to easthavenchamber01@gmail.com or select to have a professional photo taken by Jennifer Higham Photography. The first prize is a gift basket from East Haven businesses.

Click here to enter.