A total of 27 local businesses have entered this year’s Inverell Chamber of Commerce Christmas Light Display Competition across two categories.

Chamber president Nicky Lavender said this year was the highest number of entries they’ve received in the four years running the competition.

“The two categories are; packed to the rafters, so all the lights you could possibly imagine on your shop front, and the other is simply stylish window. We’re doing people’s choice voting for both categories,” she said.

Through the Chamber of Commerce’s Facebook page, tech savvy residents can jump on Facebook to vote for their favourite window, while others can look out for a voting slip printed in the Inverell Times on Friday.

Nicky said the foundation for the Festival of Christmas in Inverell first flourished from the business light competition four years ago.

“The lights promotion encouraged businesses to get in the Christmas spirit which coincided with the council adding their magnificent tree and decorations over the next few years.”

Nicky said the shop windows looked amazing and encouraged locals to jump in the car to have a look.

“Some of the businesses didn’t want their whole shop front covered in lights, that’s why we added the second category.

“Some of the windows are so inventive. Eclectic House have the most wonderful recycled coathanger display and then Freckles have such a bright light display.”

Winners will be announced on December 22 at the drawing of the shopping promotion and will share in a $3000 advertising package with The Inverell Times and 2NZ and GemFM.

Like ‘Festival of Christmas’ on Facebook for updates and voting opportunities, or buy the Inverell Times on Friday.