Main Street Calumet will be host its annual decorating contest for businesses located in Calumet, Laurium, and Calumet Township. (Photo courtesy of Main Street Calumet)

CALUMET — Main Street Calumet has announced the Illuminate Calumet decorating contest for businesses located in Calumet, Laurium, and throughout Calumet Township.

“We want Illuminate Calumet to become a tradition, transforming our downtown into a winter wonderland and showcasing the creativity of our community,” said Leah Polzien, director of Main Street Calumet. “This contest not only brightens the streets but also encourages local pride and brings residents and visitors together to celebrate the season.”

The public is invited to participate in the contest by voting for their favorite business storefront, starting Saturday, Dec. 7. Winners will be announced during Christmas week.

“One of the most exciting parts of Illuminate Calumet is giving the public the power to choose one of the winners,” said Polzien. “It’s a fun way to engage the community and get everyone involved in celebrating the creativity and holiday spirit of our downtown businesses.”

Businesses wanting to participate can learn the details and register online on the Main Street Calumet website by Friday, Dec. 6, at https://www.mainstreetcalumet.com/illuminate-calumet-contest.html.

While the competition centers around the holidays, designs that celebrate diverse cultures, traditions, and festive moments from around the world are highly encouraged. Creativity and representation matter, particularly in a community that once boasted of more than a dozen ethnic groups.

“The storefront decorating contest is a wonderful way for businesses to engage with the community while adding to the festive atmosphere downtown,” Polzien said.  “Each display tells a story, and seeing the effort put into making Calumet shine brighter each year is truly inspiring.”

Businesses in the Calumet Business District have decorated their storefronts for years and have become a showcase visiting the town during the holiday shopping season. “The competition adds an exciting element to Illuminate Calumet,” said Polzien. “It’s incredible to see businesses go all out, each trying to outdo the other with creative, dazzling displays. That friendly rivalry makes our downtown come alive and keeps people coming back to see who will win.”