Bowie House Decorating Contest 2019: How To Enter, Preview

BOWIE, MD — Now that December has arrived, it's time to focus on the one competition that truly matters: the Bowie Holiday House Decorating Contest.

The annual tradition invites Bowie residents to go all-out and decorate their homes, which will be judged based on creativity, appearance, and effort.

Here is everything you need to know about the contest:

WHAT: The 2019 Bowie Holiday House Decorating Contest

WHERE: All over Bowie

WHEN: Dec. 11, 6-11 p.m.

PRIZES: Contestants are eligible to win the following prizes:

• Pirmohamed Family Award: $100 for incorporating methods that involve children and family interaction
• Mateik-Pitts Family Award: $100 for best first-time entries
• Best of Bowie Awards: White House Ornament
• Bowie Spirit Awards: City of Bowie Centennial Ornament

DEADLINE: You must have your registration form submitted by Monday, Dec. 9, at 5 p.m. Judging will take place from 6-11 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 11.

OTHER DETAILS: Entrants will designate one of three categories: traditional (colored or white lights, Santa Claus, etc.); religious (of any denomination); and colonial (candles in the windows, greenery, white lights, the Williamsburg look).

CONTEST RULES: All contestants must adhere to the following rules:

• Home must be located within the Bowie City limits (check with the city if you're not sure)
• Contest is limited to what can be seen from the street side of the house at night.
• People and live animals are not allowed as part of the display.
• All participants are requested to keep their houses decorated through Dec. 31 so the Community may view and enjoy them.
• Entry deadline is Monday, Dec. 9, at 5 p.m.
• Judging is on Wednesday, Dec. 11, between 6-11 p.m.
• Winners will be notified by phone on Friday, Dec. 13.
• Judges' decisions are final.
• Awards will be given out at the Holiday Awards Reception on Monday, December 16, 2019, 7:00 p.m.
• All contest entrants are invited and encouraged to attend.

If you have any questions, call Bowie City Hall at 301-809-3078.