Storefront decorating contest kicks off in Downtown Albany

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) has kicked off its third Downtown Decorating Contest this holiday season. Albany BID says 14 businesses will showcase their seasonal storefront decor for a festive, friendly competition.

The competition encourages the public to explore downtown retailers, restaurants and community organizations. The contest will run through Monday, January 3.

Voters can view displays in-person and vote for their favorite online on the Albany BID website. Paper ballots will also be available for pickup and drop-off at the following locations: 

• Downtown Albany BID office (21 Lodge Street), Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Albany City Hall (24 Eagle Street), Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Discover Albany Visitors Center (25 Quackenbush Square), Thursday and Friday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Hot Chocolate Stroll registration table at Tricentennial Park on December 11 from noon to 4 p.m.

The establishment that wins will be crowned Downtown Decorating Champion and receive the Downtown Decorating trophy, bragging rights, and a social media advertising package. All voters will automatically be entered to win a $50 Downtown Albany Gift Card, redeemable at about 50 businesses.

Businesses participating:

• Bombshell Hair & Beauty Studio | 488 Broadway
• Cafe Capriccio | 49 Grand Street
• Catholic Charities Waldorf Residence | 29 Maiden Lane
• Cider Belly Doughnuts | 25 N Pearl Street
• Cobblestone Lunch Shoppe | 37 Maiden Lane
• Dawn’s Victory Sports Café | 10 Sheridan Avenue
• The Enchanted Florist & Gifts | 54 Columbia Street
• The Kenmore Ballroom | 76 N Pearl Street
• The Olde English Pub & Pantry | 683 Broadway
• The Palace Theatre | 19 Clinton Avenue
• Pearl Street Diner | 40 N Pearl Street
• Precision Fitness | 374 Broadway
• The Skinny Pancake | 1 Steuben Street
• Steuben Street Market | 58 N Pearl Street

Check out the photos from the 2019 contest!

More information on the contest can be found on the Albany BID website.