Window Decorating Contest
Pony Express Days
A McKinleyville Tradition since 1968
Pony Express Days 2025: Window Decorating Contest
Theme: McKinleyville: Where Trails Lead to Community
Hosted by: McKinleyville Chamber of Commerce
Purpose: To bring color, fun, and local pride to McKinleyville’s businesses during Pony Express Days and highlight community creativity.
Key Dates
- Entry Deadline: Friday, May 16, 2025
- Decorations Must Be Up By: Sunday, May 25, 2025
- Judging Period: May 26–28, 2025
- Winners Announced: Thursday, May 29 at the Kickoff Mixer at Azalea Hall, hosted by Hooven & Co., Inc.
- Displays Must Stay Up Through: Sunday, June 8, 2025
How to Enter You can enter one of two ways:
Google Form- Enter here
Paper Form (Form available soon)
Prizes & Recognition
Best Overall Display
- Selected by a panel of Chamber of Commerce judges
People’s Choice
- Determined by public voting via Facebook
Winners Receive:
- Bragging rights
- Picture at your display with Chamber Board and/or Executive Director to be shared on social media and website
- Announced as winners at events throughout the week of Pony Express festivities
- A framed certificate to proudly display in their business
- 4 free tickets to the Pony Express Days Chili Cook-Off on Thursday, June 5
Judging Criteria
- Creativity and originality
- Connection to the 2025 theme
- Visual appeal and effort
- Visibility from the street/public walkway
Best Practices
- Embrace the theme creatively: “Where Trails Lead to Community”—trails, horses, trees, maps, nature, community landmarks, etc.
- Be bold! Use props, posters, lighting, art, or fun textures
- Think “street view” – make sure it looks great from outside
- Involve staff and customers for fun and buy-in
- Tag the Chamber in your social media posts once your window is up!
What Not to Do
- No political, religious, or controversial content
- Avoid blocking entrances/exits or creating safety hazards
- Keep it positive, family-friendly, and community-minded
FAQs
Do I have to be a Chamber member to participate?
Nope! All McKinleyville businesses and organizations are welcome.
What if I don’t have a window?
Decorate your door, lobby, or entryway! Just make sure it’s viewable and let us know the details.
Can I participate and also be part of another Pony Express Days event?
Absolutely—we love when businesses are involved in multiple ways!
Can I update my display after entering?
Yes! Just make sure your final setup is complete by May 25.
Promotion & Community Voting
- Every entry will be featured on the Chamber’s Facebook and Instagram.
- People’s Choice voting will happen via a Facebook on the McKinleyville Chamber Facebook page from May 26–28.
- Winners will be announced publicly at the Kickoff Mixer on May 29 and shared online.
