Penetanguishene's Window Wonderland Challenge
Overview
The Town of Penetanguishene invites local businesses to participate in the Penetanguishene Window Wonderland Challenge, a festive storefront decorating competition designed to celebrate the holiday season, enhance the community experience, and encourage residents and visitors to explore local businesses.
This friendly competition provides an opportunity for businesses to showcase their creativity while helping create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere throughout Penetanguishene leading up to the Festival of Lights.
PARTICIPATION IS FREE. All registered participants will be included in the official Window Wonderland Challenge Participants List and promoted through Town communications leading up to the Festival of Lights on December 4, 2026, providing an opportunity to showcase their business to residents and visitors.
Eligibility
- Open to businesses located within the Town of Penetanguishene.
- Participation is limited to one entry per business location.
- Businesses must complete the official registration form by November 13, 2026.
Important Dates
Registration Deadline: November 13, 2026
Display Completion Deadline: November 22, 2026
Judging Period: November 23 to November 30, 2026
Festival of Lights and Award Presentation: December 4, 2026
Display Requirements
Participants are encouraged to create a festive holiday display within their storefront window or visible business frontage.
Displays should:
- Be visible from outside the business;
- Reflect the spirit of the holiday season;
- Be suitable for public viewing;
- Remain on display through the Festival of Lights whenever possible.
Participants are responsible for the design, installation, maintenance, and removal of their displays.
Awards Selection
Judges' Choice Award
A panel of judges will visit participating businesses between November 23 and November 30, 2026.
Displays will be evaluated based on:
- Creativity and originality
- Visual impact
- Holiday spirit
- Overall presentation
- Use of decorative elements and lighting
- Community appeal
The Judges' Choice Award recipient will be selected based on the highest overall score.
People's Choice Award
Residents and visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite display.
Voting details and timelines will be communicated by the Town of Penetanguishene prior to the voting period. The display receiving the highest number of eligible votes will receive the People's Choice Award.
Decisions regarding judging and voting results are final.
Awards and Prizes
First Prize – Judges' Choice Award
Prize Package Valued at Over $500
The First Prize winner will receive:
- A 30-second radio advertising spot to promote their business
- Two banners prominently displayed at Winterama recognizing the business as the Window Wonderland Challenge First Prize Winner
- A $200 gift card to a participating Window Wonderland Challenge business of the winner's choice
- Recognition during the Festival of Lights
- Recognition during Winterama
- Two shoutouts in Town social media posts between the Festival of Lights and Winterama.
People's Choice Award
Prize Package Valued at Over $200
The People's Choice Award winner will receive:
- One banner prominently displayed at Winterama recognizing the business as the Window Wonderland Challenge People's Choice Award Winner
- A $100 gift card to a participating Window Wonderland Challenge business of the winner's choice
- Recognition during the Festival of Lights
- Recognition during Winterama
- One shoutout in Town social media posts between the Festival of Lights and Winterama.
Photography and Promotion
By participating, businesses grant the Town of Penetanguishene permission to photograph and share images of their displays through municipal websites, social media, tourism marketing, community event promotion, and future Window Wonderland Challenge promotions. Business names and display photographs may appear in promotional materials related to the Challenge.
General Terms
- Gift cards must be purchased from and redeemed at businesses participating in the 2026 Penetanguishene Window Wonderland Challenge.
- Prizes are non-transferable and must be accepted as awarded.
- The Town of Penetanguishene reserves the right to substitute prizes of equal or greater value should circumstances require.
- The Town reserves the right to amend contest details, judging procedures, timelines, or award categories if unforeseen circumstances make it necessary to do so.
Acceptance
Participation in the Penetanguishene Window Wonderland Challenge constitutes acceptance of these Participation Guidelines and Contest Terms.
The Town of Penetanguishene looks forward to partnering with local businesses to create a festive and memorable holiday experience for residents and visitors alike.
Questions or registration information
Lesley Hough, Events Coordinator, Town of Penetanguishene
lhough@penetanguishene.ca
