GOACC House Decorating Contest

Dec 9

OLEAN, NY - Christmas is too bright, said no one ever! The Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce encourages all to check out the contestants of the Holiday Lighting Contest for area homes. The neighborhood contest will be judged by YOU - community members as well as GOACC staff based on placement (how well does the homeowner place the decorations), color (too many colors or not enough – what looks best!), design (outline of windows, doors, schematics, etc.), and special features incorporated into the design (inflatables, props, and extra points for SQUIRRELS!) with judging now through December 11th on the Holiday Lighting Contest album on GOACC Facebook page at https://bit.ly/33RJrhk.

First, second, and third place winners will receive GOACC gift certificates in amounts of $100, $75, and $50 respectively. Gift certificates are accepted by more than 287 locations! Winners will be announced December 14th.

Although judging will take place online, GOACC also encourages you to gather family members together in the family car, load up on hot chocolate and holiday tunes, and check out the contestants and the many other households lit up for the holiday. The addresses of the contestants are as follows: IN OLEAN: 831 Prince Street, 717 King Street, 138 South 5th Street, 2410 Rt. 16 North, 132 East Forest Avenue, 483 Vermont Street, and 126 South 9th Street. IN ALLEGANY: 1 St. John’s Drive, Allegany.

“Holiday lights and decorations - twinkling, colorful lights lifting spirits during these dark times - are BRIGHT ideas in spreading a little hope and cheer around,” said Meme K. Yanetsko, GOACC COO. “We encourage all to put up some lights for your own enjoyment. It’s a great idea to drive around and look at the holiday lights. As a social distancing activity, people can admire the lights from the safety of their own homes or cars.”

For those that are just starting to put up decorations, here are holiday lighting tips to best protect yourself and your home:

Verify that each string of lights carries the official Underwriter's Laboratories;
Take time to inspect your lights before plugging them in;
Throw away suspect or damaged strings;
Verify that all strings designated for outdoor use are weatherproofed lights and wires;
Do not overload electric sockets;
Use different sockets to plug in multiple lights to balance the load;
Set lights to a timer system so that they turn on and off, or be certain to shut off lights when you are asleep or not at home;
Hang lights and lamps so that they are not in contact with branches, paper, ornaments, decorations, or other flammable items.

For more information on other Greater Olean Area holiday events and activities, call 716-372-4433 or email santa@oleanny.com

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