The City of Hamilton has officially opened the 2026 Christmas Window Decorating Competition, inviting retailers and service providers to showcase their holiday spirit. The contest is part of the city’s annual effort to boost tourism and support the island’s vibrant small‑business community.

Applications are now accepted and will close on Monday, 9 November. Businesses must submit a completed entry form, a brief description of their design concept, and a set of photographs or sketches that illustrate the proposed look. Judging will be conducted by a panel of local artists, merchants and city officials, with prizes ranging from a feature in the city’s holiday brochure to a sponsored social‑media campaign.

"We want to see Hamilton’s storefronts transform into a living, breathing celebration of our culture and creativity," said a City spokesperson. The competition follows last year’s successful showcase, which drew visitors to the downtown area and helped local shops increase sales during the winter season.

City leaders encourage all eligible businesses to participate, noting that the contest not only promotes a festive atmosphere but also strengthens community ties and offers a platform for emerging designers. The City will unveil the winning entry during a ribbon‑cutting event in early December, setting the tone for the holiday season across Bermuda’s capital.