Let’s get lit again, Innisfil.
For the fifth consecutive year, now-Coun. Jennifer Richardson has organized the Light It Up Innisfil contest. About 25 properties have registered so far, with proceeds being split between the Innisfil Food Bank and Community for Kids.
“We’re really hoping for more people to sign up,” she said. “We’re getting there. People just gotta know it’s happening.”
Online balloting will start on Dec. 13 and run until Dec. 21 — a link to the voting website will be posted to the 'Connecting Innisfil' Facebook page. Categories include the most creative, best inflatables, best light display, and fan favourite.
The ward councillors and mayor will also choose their favourites.
“It’s a fun contest,” Richardson said, noting prizes have been donated by local businesses including Sunset Grill and Domino’s Pizza, but sponsors are still needed. “I want people to drive around and enjoy being a family, checking things out. (But) whether they can participate or not, I hope everyone gets the chance to enjoy the holiday season.”
The contest began at the height of health and safety regulations imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“What I love seeing the most is friends on Facebook who go as a family,” Richardson said. “You see the selfie of them and their family driving around, checking out all the lights. The most important part of Christmas for me is spending the time with family. Everyone is busy, but the fact they could take a little bit of time as a family … it’s what’s worth it to me.”
The entry fee is $10.
Homes can still sign up by visiting forms.gle/ovfJyP7XdnaFhtSZ8. Any business interested in sponsoring the contest can do so here: forms.gle/ovfJyP7XdnaFhtSZ8.