Submitted
Abilene residents are gearing up for dazzling light displays as they compete in the 3rd annual Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown on Saturday, December 2. This vibrant event promises to transform Abilene into a winter wonderland, attracting both locals and visitors alike.
"I love looking at Christmas lights," said Cory Frey, organizer of the contest. "My goal is for the displays to draw thousands of people to Abilene and for residents to gather, creating a joyful community spirit as they go from house to house admiring the lights and decorations."
To participate in this festive competition, residents are invited to drop off a food item or make a monetary donation at the Abilene Food Bank, conveniently located at 409 NW 3rd Street, next to the Sunflower Hotel. Volunteers from the Food Bank and Neighbor to Neighbor will be stationed in the eastbound lane, eagerly awaiting donations and ready to provide participants with a ballot, map, and instructions for the Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown contest.
Excitement builds as the winners will be announced at Little Ike Park in downtown Abilene at 8 p.m. The competition is fierce, with enticing prizes up for grabs:
First Place: $2,000
Second Place: $1,000
Third Place: $500
Mayor's Choice: 4 houses will receive $100 each
The 2023 Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown is made possible by the generous sponsorship of local businesses, including Almost Home Realty, Abilene Physical Therapy, Solid Rock Audio Video, JRI Hospitality, The Farmhouse, Original Grande, Salina Country Club, and Ingermanson Farms.
As the evening culminates in a breathtaking downtown fireworks display at 8 p.m., the entire community is invited to join the festivities and witness the magic of the season.
For more information and to follow the glowing trail of lights, visit www.AbileneKansas.org/ChristmasLights.
See a full schedule of Cowtown Christmas events at www.AbileneKansas.org/Christmas.