Help bring Pony Express Days to life around McKinleyville through creative storefront decorating inspired by this year’s theme: Coastal Roots, Western Boots. The Window Decorating Contest is a fun way to celebrate community spirit, showcase your business, and be part of the festival atmosphere throughout town.

This year’s Pony Express Days theme celebrates the spirit of McKinleyville, where redwood forests, coastal beauty, western roots, and community connection all come together. Businesses are encouraged to get creative with window displays inspired by life on the North Coast, western charm, small town traditions, trails, horses, boots, ocean themes, local landscapes, and community pride.

Decorate your business window or storefront using the 2026 theme: Coastal Roots, Western Boots

Submit your business name and contact information through the entry form

Have your display completed by the judging deadline

Keep your window decorated during Pony Express Days so the community can enjoy it

Share photos and tag the McKinleyville Chamber so we can help spread the word

Displays will be judged before Pony Express Days weekend

Winners will be selected based on creativity, theme, overall look, and community spirit

Winning businesses will be recognized by the McKinleyville Chamber

Winners will be featured on Chamber social media

Winners will be announced during Pony Express Days week for bragging rights!

Entry Deadline: Submit your business entry by Friday, May 15, 2026

Decorating Deadline: Have your window display completed by Friday, May 29, 2026

Judging: Judging will take place May 29–June 1, 2026

Winner Announcement: Winners will be announced on social media by Saturday, June 6, 2026

Display Dates: Please keep your window decorated through Sunday, June 7, 2026 and throughout Pony Express Days weekend

There is no cost to participate.

Help bring Pony Express Days spirit to storefronts throughout McKinleyville.

Every year, businesses throughout McKinleyville help turn Pony Express Days into a community-wide celebration through creative storefront displays and local pride.

Take a look at some of the creative displays from past Pony Express Days celebrations around McKinleyville.

We’d love to see businesses throughout McKinleyville participate and help make Pony Express Days feel festive throughout the community.

Contact Information

McKinleyville Chamber of Commerce
📍 McKinleyville, California
📞 707-839-2449
📧 mckinleyvillechamber@gmail.com