Businesses located in the Business Improvement District area can participate in the decoration contest by setting up holiday themed window displays or storefront decorations. Pictured is Deja Brew's winter window display. (Photo by Sarah Genter)

NORWICH — The Norwich Business Improvement District (BID) will be holding their annual storefront decorating contest again this year.

"This is the fourth year to bring a small contest to businesses for holiday decorations," said BID Executive Director Tracey Chawgo. "[They] get a little bragging rights, and they get a little certificate and an award."

Any businesses located within the Business Improvement District area can enter the contest simply by setting up holiday themed window displays or decorating their storefronts. Displays will be judged by BID Board members on Wednesday, December 22.

"They just decorate, and then we go around on the 22nd and judge them," said Chawgo. "Throughout the day people go through and judge them, and then we make the decision and notify people on the 23rd."

"It's just a favorite based on the group," he continued. "They usually generally do them just kind of independently, and cast their vote."

Three participating businesses will be selected for first, second, and third place winners, and will receive a certificate and cash prize.

Chawgo also urged residents to take a stroll through downtown Norwich to admire the decorations, and to be sure to tell business owners you enjoyed their displays.

"Go by and take a look at the windows as you shop downtown, and enjoy the work that people have put into them," he said. "Don't hesitate to stick your head in, to the business owner, and tell them their window looks good, if you're not going in there to shop for anything. Just to let them know that you appreciate it."