Third Annual “Deck the Windows” Contest Begins Black Friday

Window shopping takes on a whole new meaning during the holidays in Southlake. Whether traditional or whimsical, retailers are invited to put their holiday spirit front-and-center with a festive storefront display as part of the City of Southlake’s Third Annual Deck the Windows contest, which runs November 23 – December 24.

According to Jill Lind, Southlake’sTourism Marketing Manager, the promotion is based upon the strategy that the spirited holiday display windows offer an opportunity to produce extraordinary sales results, and great window design is effective in drawing shoppers into the store.

“A creative, themed window display not only gets people into the holiday spirit, but is a great opportunity to get them into the stores,” explains Lind. “This promotion is intended to encourage people to shop locally, which benefits individual retailers and increases the city’s sales tax revenue.”

Last year’s Deck the Windows contest included 22 Southlake businesses with nearly 700 votes being cast during the month-long contest. Corinthian Wellness Spa was crowned the 2011 winner with its display paying homage to Mardi Gras and the overall celebration of life. Brooks Brothers in Town Square won the inaugural contest in 2010.

Lind says this year’s contest is being simplified to make it easier for businesses to participate and shoppers to cast votes. Open to all retail stores in Southlake, a window decal (see right) will signify participation and includes voting information via text or email. To be eligible in the contest, each window display must be ready on Black Friday, November 23.

NOTE: Only one vote per telephone number, e-mail address and name will be accepted.

Deck the Windows is part of Southlake’s Home for the Holidays six-week celebration, which kicks-off November 17 with the tree lighting ceremony in Town Square, and includes photos with Santa, carriage rides, choir performances, and more. Most stores in Southlake Town Square will open early on Black Friday and have extended holiday hours.

For a listing of store hours and more information about Deck the Windows, visit www.southlakehomefortheholidays.com or contact Jill Lind at 817-748-8652.