Lewes, Del. — November 15, 2023 — For the fourth year in a row, the homegrown hometown Lewes Lights initiative will brighten the First Town in the First State.
Lewes Lights originated in 2020 as a response to the cancellation of Christmas events during shutdowns. Businesses and homeowners decorate their buildings and register online, where a map is created so people can enjoy the beauty on their own time from their own car.
"Lewes Lights will keep spreading joy as long as homeowners and businesses put up lights and register for our tour map," says Debra Evalds. The event, self-funded and not corporate sponsored, relies on the enthusiasm and participation of the community. Evalds adds, "We are a small event, organizationally, without large expenses or overhead, so Lewes Lights can be run with just a website and signs if the people of Lewes sign up and continue to spread the word."
There are four categories for competition this year:
1) "For Kids From 1-92, Merry Christmas To You Award” - Whimsical and fun decor that brings out the child in all of us.
2) "Christmas Past Award” -Vintage vibes from the 1930's-1980's that harken back to a quieter time in Lewes.
3) "White Christmas Award”- White lights, style, and beautiful décor that captures the magic of the season.
4) “Colors of Christmas Award”- Colorful lights and decorations that glow with the spirit of the season and spread Christmas cheer.
The “Jingle Bell Lane Award” is secretly selected for the best street in Lewes and is judged for cumulative jolliness. The streets are judged as a whole, with registered and non-registered homes adding to the overall spirit.
New this year is the "WOW-Wonderful Homes West of One" Page; Responding to the demand from Christmas light enthusiasts who live out of city limits, Lewes Lights introduces the new "WOW-Wonderful Homes West of One" page on their website. Homeowners interested in being featured on the WOW page can visit www.LewesLights.org for submission details, allowing the community to discover and appreciate the festive displays West of Route One.
Evalds says at this time there is no opening ceremony for Lewes Lights. The competition officially runs December 1-31. For more information, visit www.LewesLights.org.