Jasper Announces 2025 Holiday Lighting Contest with Community Prizes

The Jasper Jaycees and the Jasper Chamber of Commerce announced on November 16, 2025 that the city will host an Outdoor Home Christmas Decorating and Lighting Contest for Jasper residents and for households located within one mile of the city limits. The contest will award prizes to the top three homes in each of four categories, which include Most Traditional, Best Use of Lights, Family Theme and Most Original. Judging is set for Friday, December 12, 2025 and residents are asked to have their lights turned on by 6 PM that evening. Entry forms are available through the Dubois County Free Press, at the Jasper Chamber offices at 302 W 6th Street, or by phone. The deadline to enter is Friday, December 5, 2025.

For many residents the contest is a chance to share neighborhood pride and enjoy community traditions during the winter season. Seasonal decorations and neighborhood light displays can bring visitors to local streets, supporting small businesses and creating opportunities for safe, outdoor social connection as families gather to view displays. The event may also help sustain volunteer networks and civic engagement by centering neighborhood participation around a shared, celebratory activity.

At the same time the contest highlights equity and public safety questions that often accompany community decorating events. Not all households have the financial ability to buy lights or decorations, and older residents or those with mobility limitations may need assistance with installation and maintenance. Excessive electrical loads on older wiring can create safety hazards, so organizers and residents will need to consider guidance about safe installation and the limits of home electrical systems. Local service providers and community organizations could play a role in offering low cost or loaned lights, installation help and safety checks to broaden participation and reduce risk.

Municipal officials and organizers may also consider explicit outreach to lower income neighborhoods and to residents who live just outside the city limits but qualify within the one mile boundary. Clear communication about entry procedures and accessible ways to register by phone can lessen barriers to entry. The contest rules, categories and prize structure aim to be inclusive, but practical supports will determine how widely the event benefits the community.

The contest announcement arrived as the county moves into the winter season, giving households time to plan entries and coordinate displays. With the entry deadline on December 5, 2025 and judging on December 12, 2025, residents who want to participate should pick up forms from the Dubois County Free Press or the Jasper Chamber of Commerce soon. The event offers a festive opportunity, and local leaders, nonprofit groups and neighbors can help ensure it is safe and equitable so that more members of the community can take part.