Walking Through a Window Wonderland

Downtown businesses that get into the holiday spirit could be eligible for big prizes during an upcoming storefront decoration contest. Shoppers will also have an opportunity to answer riddles for prize money.

Called Window Wonderland and sponsored by the Fredericksburg Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the Economic Development Authority and the Free Lance-Star, the contest asks businesses to decorate their shops as brightly as as festively as possible.

"We want to create a holiday sensation that will bring visitors for the beauty of our downtown," wrote Economic Development and Tourism Director Karen Hedelt in an email announcing the contest.

Downtown shoppers will be able to vote for their favorite storefront. Prizes will be awarded to the business and non-profit which gather the most votes over the season. $500 goes to the first place winners in each category, with the next three top vote getters receiving $200 each.

Each window will display a riddle relating to toys for members of the general public to answer. $1,900 in prize money has so far been set aside for winners of the riddle contest, but the purses could get bigger.

"We are also seeking gift certificates and prizes from downtown business…to donate to the prize cache," reads Hedelt's email. "The more prizes, the better the public participation will be."

More information on the contest will be available at an open house tomorrow, Oct. 12, from 9 to 11 a.m.