Grand Display Contest

Sponsored by

Submissions Open November 22nd!

About

Think your display is the best in show? This is your moment to shine! The most dazzling displays will compete for the Grand Display title, awarded by a panel of judges looking for creativity, design, and holiday spirit.

Prizes
1st - $500
2nd - $200
3rd - $100

In addition, Capital Dental will donate $1,000 to a charity selected by the winning display.

Judging Criteria

Each display will be scored in the following three categories, with a maximum of 10 points per category:

  • Creativity & Originality – Uniqueness of the display and imaginative use of lights, decorations, music, animation, or theme.

  • Overall Design & Presentation – Cohesive layout, color coordination, flow, and overall visual appeal, considering how effectively lights, animation, inflatables, and other decorative elements are integrated into the display.

  • Holiday Spirit & “Wow” Factor – Emotional impact, festive atmosphere, and how well the display captures the joy and magic of the Christmas season.

Scoring

  • Each judge will assign 1–10 points per category, for a maximum of 30 points per judge.

  • The combined total from all four judges equals 120 possible points per display.

  • Displays will be ranked by their total scores to determine 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners

  • In the event of a tie for any placement, judges will confer to determine which place the displays in question receive.

Rules

  • The display address must be within the Lincoln city limits.

  • A maximum of ten displays will compete in the Grand Display category.

  • A display may enter either the Grand Display Contest or the Holiday Display Contest, but not both.

  • If more than ten entries are received, a judge will select the finalists.

  • Entries not selected as Grand Display finalists may have the option to enter a category in the Holiday Display Contest instead.

  • Yard signs will be provided to finalists and will include a QR code linking to a site showcasing the Grand Display finalists.

  • All decorating must be completed by the resident living at the home. Professional decorators or designers are not permitted.

  • Businesses are not eligible to participate.

  • Displays may not include political ads or decor at any time. Doing so will result in immediate disqualification.

  • Decorations must be visible from the roadway for judging purposes.

  • The deadline to submit your display is December 10th at 10:00 PM.

  • Weather permitting, judges will visit and score each finalist between December 12th and December 22nd.

  • Winners will be notified after December 22nd.

  • The chosen charity for the Capital Dental donation must be a legitimate, verifiable organization and will be vetted before funds are issued.