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 December 12 and 13 from 4 to 9 pm. 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 pm on December 13.
Why Should You Enter?
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 4:00 pm on Friday, December 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 home 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.
How to Register
Registration is simple. Fill out the form at
https://forms.gle/3sy3FAMKkd9fH18M9 or stop by the Visit Fairfield office. All entries must be received by December 5 to guarantee inclusion on the map.
About the Event
The Fairfield Christmas Light Showdown is hosted by Visit Fairfield CVB and sponsored by Macks Automotive.
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
Also check out other Contests in Fairfield.