Dublin opens its fall decorating contest, with a separate Diwali timeline

Registration for the City of Dublin's 2026 Fall Home Decorating Contest opens Tuesday, Sept. 15. Any Dublin resident can enter, and the city has built the contest around four categories rather than one general prize.

They are Spirits & Spooktacular Scenes, for Halloween and whimsical displays; Festival of Lights, for Diwali and other traditions built around light, including diyas, lanterns and rangoli; Harvest, Heritage & Remembrance, for cultural and seasonal displays such as Dia de los Muertos altars and harvest scenes; and Cozy, Coven & Lantern Loft, for balconies, patios, entryways and porches, which is the category for anyone decorating a condo or an apartment rather than a front yard.

There are two calendars, because Diwali falls later in the season.

General contest, every category except Diwali

• Register: Sept. 15 to Oct. 12
• People's Choice voting, called The Great Fall Glow-Off: Oct. 15 to 25
• Judging: Oct. 19 to 22
• Final deliberation: Oct. 28
• Winners announced and yard signs delivered: by Oct. 31
• Displays recognized: Nov. 1 to 10

Festival of Lights, the Diwali category

• Register: Sept. 15 to Oct. 20
• Judging: Nov. 8 to 11
• Final deliberation: Nov. 12
• Winners announced and yard signs delivered: Nov. 13
• Displays recognized: through November

A winner is chosen in each category. On top of that there is the People's Choice Award, The Great Fall Glow-Off, which the city says is open to standout displays of every style, from Halloween to Diwali to harvest decor. Winners get a yard sign, a gift card to a local business and a certificate of recognition from the City Council.

Registration details are on the city's contest page.