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Since 2005, these Tacky Awards acknowledge the best of the best Christmas light displays in the world. Nominate your favorites for a coveted Tacky Award this season.

The Tacky Awards: The Premier Christmas Light Awards Competition

The Tacky Awards are the most prestigious Christmas light awards in the world, celebrating the best holiday displays across ten distinct categories. Since 2005, these coveted awards have recognized homeowners who transform their properties into spectacular winter wonderlands that bring joy to thousands of visitors each season.

View the hall of fame of Tacky Award winners

2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005

Official Tacky Award Categories

🏆 Best All Around – The Tacky Award The highest honor recognizing displays that excel in design, execution, creativity, and overall impact.

💻 Best Computerized – The Buddy the Elf Award Synchronized music, advanced programming, and cutting-edge technology creating mesmerizing animated light shows.

👶 Best for Kids – The Spirit of Cindy Lou Who Award Family-friendly displays with interactive elements, beloved characters, and magical storytelling.

✨ Classiest – The Miracle on 34th Street Award Elegant, sophisticated displays showcasing timeless holiday beauty with refined taste.

🎨 Most Creative – The Ernest P. Worrell Award Innovative displays pushing boundaries with unique concepts and original designs.

📢 Loudest – The Charlie Brown Award Bold statements with vibrant colors and eye-catching presentations.

🌟 Likely Seen From Space – The Clark Griswold Award Epic-scale displays lighting up entire properties with thousands of lights.

🎭 Tackiest – The Uncle Eddie Award Fun, kitschy displays embracing humor and unabashed holiday enthusiasm.

⚠️ Most Dangerous – The Ralphie Award Daring installations pushing the limits with ambitious, spectacular effects.

📦 Most Stuff in Least Space – The Randy Award Maximizing every inch with impressive density and creative placement.

How to Win a Tacky Award

What Judges Look For

Tacky Award winners share these key qualities:

• Design Excellence: Cohesive themes with professional execution
• Technical Innovation: Synchronized music, animations, and creative programming
• Visual Impact: Strategic use of color, symmetry, and architectural enhancement
• Community Spirit: Displays that become neighborhood destinations and create shared traditions
• Attention to Detail: Quality materials, thoughtful placement, and pristine maintenance

Entering the Competition

Nominate Your Display: Submit high-quality photos, videos, and display details through the Tacky Light Tour platform.

What to Include:

• Multiple angles showing your display at peak hours
• Video walkthrough highlighting synchronized elements
• Display description with theme, light count, and special features
• Viewing hours and location information

Timing: Start planning in summer, begin installation by early fall, and submit nominations by early December.

Finding Award-Winning Christmas Lights Near You

Using Tacky Light Tour

The Tacky Light Tour platform helps you discover award-winning Christmas light displays in your area:

1. Search by Location: Enter your city, zip code, or address
2. Filter by Awards: View only Tacky Award winners and nominees
3. Read Reviews: See what other visitors say about displays
4. Plan Your Route: Create custom driving tours of multiple displays
5. Upload Photos: Share your experience and help others discover great displays

Best Times to Visit Award Winners

• Peak Season: Mid-December through Christmas Eve
• Weeknights: Less crowded than weekends
• Early Evening: 6-8 PM for optimal lighting with manageable crowds
• Special Events: Many displays host charity nights or special viewing events

Christmas Light Awards FAQ

How much does it cost to create an award-winning display? Award winners range from $500 budget displays to $50,000+ professional installations. Creativity and execution matter more than budget size.

Do I need professional help? While some winners hire professional installers, many DIY enthusiasts win awards through dedication, planning, and creativity.

How long does setup take? Most award-winning displays require 40-200 hours of installation time, spread over several weeks.

Are there categories for small displays? Yes! Many contests include categories for apartments, condos, and modest yards to ensure inclusivity.

Can I win multiple years? Absolutely! Many displays become annual traditions and win recognition year after year.

Start Your Award-Winning Journey Today

Ready to create a Christmas light display worthy of recognition? Whether you’re dreaming of winning The Tacky Award or simply want to bring joy to your neighborhood, every spectacular display starts with inspiration and planning.

Explore Current Award Winners: Browse the Tacky Awards leaderboard to see this year’s best displays and draw inspiration for your own creation.

Nominate a Display: Know someone whose Christmas lights deserve recognition? Submit their display for consideration in next year’s awards.

Join the Community: Connect with other Christmas lighting enthusiasts, share tips, and celebrate the magic of the holiday season together.

The tradition of Christmas light awards celebrates more than just decorations—it honors the generous spirit of those who share joy, create memories, and light up the darkest nights of winter with warmth and wonder.