SILENT NIGHT, TWINKLY NIGHT. Check out the Chippewa Valley Parade of Lights through Dec. 31.

Brighten up your nights this holiday season with the Chippewa Valley Parade of Lights, courtesy of Eau Claire’s Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Division. Registration for the second annual contest is open through Wednesday, Nov. 17.

Residents and business owners in the Eau Claire and Altoona school districts are invited to adorn the exteriors of their homes or businesses for a chance to be known locally as one of the best-decorated places in the Chippewa Valley during the holiday season. Proceeds from the cost of entry will benefit Youth Recreation Scholarships.

Addresses that enter will receive a yard sign with their entry number, which should be displayed from Dec. 1 to Dec. 31. Between Dec. 2 and 5, a panel of community members will judge the entries in categories including Best Use of Lights, Most Entertaining, Most Creative Theme, and Judges’ Choice. Winners will be announced on Dec. 8.

Don’t want to participate, but still want to enjoy the lights blazing in the wintry darkness? A map showing all the participating businesses and homes will be available to the public.

The Chippewa Valley Parade of Lights was launched last year as a way for families to get outside and into the holiday spirit. For more info on this year’s Parade of Lights, visit eauclairewi.gov/recreation/family-fun/clearwater-winter-events.

Residents can register online at this link. Click on Activities, Search for Parade of Lights, and use Residential Code: FLERS-2021PL. Businesses can register by calling (715) 839-5032.