Dunlap announces ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ decorating theme
Jill Schaben, Dunlap Correspondent
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” is the theme for DCDC’s fifth annual communitywide Christmas decorating contest in Dunlap. All homes and businesses within Dunlap city limits are eligible and automatically entered. No registration is required.
The community Christmas decorating theme generates excitement among residents and business owners, who go all out with their displays. Past themes have included Christmas movies, “The Polar Express,” Santa’s Workshop and Gingerbread Village. Participants have decorated with painted windows, cardboard cutouts, inflatables, strings of lights and specially made wooden structures.
Local businesses and residents bring considerable creativity to their decorations. As DCDC’s executive director, I begin receiving questions about the theme in early October. Participants want to plan ahead so they can prepare, order and assemble decorations.
Businesses are encouraged to decorate ahead of Dunlap’s annual Shop Hop. This year’s event is scheduled for 4-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20. The event traditionally takes place the Friday before Thanksgiving.
Shop Hop gives shoppers an opportunity to visit local businesses during extended evening hours. Participating stores will offer seasonal shopping, in-store specials and refreshments. Independent businesses also will have tables at the Cottonwood Event Center and Dunlap City Hall.
Bonsall’s will play Christmas music over its outdoor loudspeaker, carrying the sounds of the season down Main Street. Dunlap’s Historic Wax Nativity also will open for the season, offering free public viewing. The display is on Remsen Street, about half a block west of U.S. Highway 30.
Judging for the business decorating contest will take place Nov. 20-22. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place. Winners will be announced Nov. 23.
Residential judging will take place Dec. 11-13. First- and second-place prizes will be awarded in two categories: best in show and best use of theme. Residential winners will be announced Dec. 14.
The annual theme gives residents and business owners a shared source of inspiration. It also leaves room for their own holiday creativity. I am thoroughly impressed by Dunlap.
